0000000000007038
AUTHOR
Heikki Penttilä
Beta Decay of 111Tc to 111Ru
The β-decay of the very neutron-rich 111Tc nucleus has been observed. A partial decay scheme of 111Ru is presented, complementing the high-spin levels earlier reported in spontaneous fission work.
Total absorption γ -ray spectroscopy of niobium isomers
15 pags. 17 figs., 5 tabs.
New design and simulation of the ion guide for neutron-induced fission products at the IGISOL facility
Measurements of independent fission yield distributions in neutron-induced fission at high neutron energies are important for our fundamental understanding of the fission process, and are also relevant for reactor physics applications. So far, measurements of independent fission yields in proton-induced fission have been performed at the IGISOL facility at the University of Jyväskylä, using the Penning trap as a high resolving-power mass-filter. In order to also facilitate measurements of neutron-induced fission, a dedicated ion guide and a proton-to-neutron converter was developed. However, the first measurement indicates that fewer fission products than expected reach the Penning trap. To…
Mobility determination of lead isotopes in glass for retrospective radon measurements rad
In retrospective radon measurements, the 22-y half life of 210Pb is used as an advantage. 210Pb is often considered to be relatively immobile in glass after alpha recoil implanted by 222Rn progenies. The diffusion of 210Pb could, however, lead to uncertain wrong retrospective radon exposure estimations if 210Pb is mobile and can escape from glass, or lost as a result of cleaning-induced surface modification. This diffusion was studied by a radiotracer technique, where 209Pb was used as a tracer in a glass matrix for which the elemental composition is known. Using the ion guide isotope separator on-line technique, the 209Pb atoms were implanted into the glass with an energy of 39 keV. The di…
Precision mass measurements on neutron-rich rare-earth isotopes at JYFLTRAP - reduced neutron pairing and implications for the $r$-process calculations
The rare-earth peak in the $r$-process abundance pattern depends sensitively on both the astrophysical conditions and subtle changes in nuclear structure in the region. This work takes an important step elucidating the nuclear structure and reducing the uncertainties in $r$-process calculations via precise atomic mass measurements at the JYFLTRAP double Penning trap. $^{158}$Nd, $^{160}$Pm, $^{162}$Sm, and $^{164-166}$Gd have been measured for the first time and the precisions for $^{156}$Nd, $^{158}$Pm, $^{162,163}$Eu, $^{163}$Gd, and $^{164}$Tb have been improved considerably. Nuclear structure has been probed via two-neutron separation energies $S_{2n}$ and neutron pairing energy metrics…
Excited states in Br87 populated in β decay of Se87
Precision measurement of the half-life and the decay branches of 62Ga
In an experiment performed at the Accelerator Laboratory of the University of Jyvaskyla, the beta-decay half-life of 62Ga has been studied with high precision using the IGISOL technique. A half-life of T1/2 = 116.09(17)ms was measured. Using beta-gamma coincidences, the gamma intensity of the 954keV transition and an upper limit of the beta-decay feeding of the 0+_2 state have been extracted. The present experimental results are compared to previous measurements and their impact on our understanding of the weak interaction is discussed.
First isomeric yield ratio measurements by direct ion counting and implications for the angular momentum of the primary fission fragments
We report the first experimental determination of independent isomeric yield ratios using direct ion counting with a Penning trap, which offered such a high resolution in mass that isomeric states could be separated. The measurements were performed at the Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) facility at the University of Jyvaskyla. The isomer production ratios of Ge-81, Y-96,Y-97 Sn-128(,1)30, and Sb-129 in the 25-MeV proton-induced fission of U-na(t) and Th-232 were studied. Three isomeric pairs (Ge-81, Y-96, and Sb-129) were measured for the first time for the U-na(t)(p, f) reaction, while all the reported yield ratios for the Th-232(p, f) reaction were determined for the first ti…
First determination of β-delayed multiple neutron emission beyond A = 100 through direct neutron measurement : The P2n value of 136Sb
Background: β-delayed multiple neutron emission has been observed for some nuclei with A≤100, being the Rb100 the heaviest β2n emitter measured to date. So far, only 25P2n values have been determined for the ≈300 nuclei that may decay in this way. Accordingly, it is of interest to measure P2n values for the other possible multiple neutron emitters throughout the chart of the nuclides. It is of particular interest to make such a measurement for nuclei with A>100 to test the predictions of theoretical models and simulation tools for the decays of heavy nuclei in the region of very neutron-rich nuclei. In addition, the decay properties of these nuclei are fundamental for the understanding of a…
Experimental study of 100Tc β decay with total absorption γ -ray spectroscopy
The β decay of 100Tc has been studied by using the total absorption γ -ray spectroscopy technique at the Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line facility in Jyväskylä. In this work the new Decay Total Absorption γ -ray Spectrometer in coincidence with a cylindrical plastic β detector has been employed. The β intensity to the ground state obtained from the analysis is in good agreement with previous high-resolution measurements. However, differences in the feeding to the first-excited state as well as weak feeding to a new level at high excitation energy have been deduced from this experiment. Theoretical calculations performed in the quasiparticle random-phase approximation framework are also r…
First decay scheme of 113Tc and identification of 113Ru m
Very neutron–rich fission products of the mass chain A=113 obtained from the IGISOL on–line mass separator have been investigated by γγ coincidence techniques and γ-spectra multiscaling. Gamma–rays following β–decay of 113Tc have been observed for the first time and a new 0.5 s isomeric state has been found in 113Ru.
Status report of the Jyvaskyla ion guide isotope separator on-line facility
The ion guide isotope separator facility IGISOL of the University of Jyvaskyla has been moved to the new K-130 heavy ion cyclotron laboratory. The totally reconstructed facility is described in detail. The primary beams and targets, helium pumping, separator beam line construction and separator beam diagnostics are discussed. The spectroscopy stations are introduced with illustrative examples from the research program, including beta-delayed proton and neutron spectroscopy, gamma-ray spectroscopy with and without arrays, conversion electron spectroscopy, collinear laser spectroscopy and nuclear level lifetime spectroscopy.
Transition probabilities in 31P and 31S : A test for isospin symmetry
International audience; Excited states in the mirror nuclei 31P and 31S were populated in the 1p and 1n exit channels of the reaction 20Ne + 12C, at a beam energy of 33 MeV. The 20Ne beam was delivered for the first time by the Piave-Alpi accelerator of the Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro. Angular correlations of coincident γ-rays and Doppler-shift attenuation lifetime measurements were performed using the multi-detector array GASP in conjunction with the EUCLIDES charged particle detector. In the observed B(E1) strengths, the isoscalar component, amounting to 24% of the isovector one, provides strong evidence for breaking of the isospin symmetry in the A=31 mass region. Self-consistent bey…
Production of refractory elements close to the Z=N line using the ion-guide technique
Production of neutron-deficient isotopes of refractory elements in the A = 80-88 region was studied using the IGISOL technique and the 165 MeV Si-32 + Ni-nat reaction. Radioactive isotopes of Y through Mo could be produced up to the M-T = + 1 line. New information on the decay of the A = 82 and 85 nuclei, including a more detailed decay scheme and more accurate half-life for Y-82, was obtained. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Total absorption studies of high priority decays for reactor applications: 86Br and 91Rb
Preliminary results from beta decay studies of nuclei that are important for reactor applications are presented. The beta decays have been studied using the total absorption technique (TAS) and the pure beams provided by the JYFLTRAP system at the IGISOL facility of the University of Jyväskylä. peerReviewed
New accurate measurements of neutron emission probabilities for relevant fission products
We have performed new accurate measurements of the beta-delayed neutron emission probability for ten isotopes of the elements Y, Sb, Te and I. These are fission products that either have a significant contribution to the fraction of delayed neutrons in reactors or are relatively close to the path of the astrophysical r process. The measurements were performed with isotopically pure radioactive beams using a constant and high efficiency neutron counter and a low noise beta detector. Preliminary results are presented for six of the isotopes and compared with previous measurements and theoretical calculations. peerReviewed
First observation of β decay ofNb108toMo108
The \ensuremath{\beta}-delayed \ensuremath{\gamma} decay of $^{108}\mathrm{Nb}$ has been studied using the on-line mass-separator technique. The measured \ensuremath{\beta}-decay half-life 0.20\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.03 s agrees with the previous measurement based on \ensuremath{\beta}-delayed neutron detection. The lifetime of the first ${2}^{+}$ state in $^{108}\mathrm{Mo}$ was measured to be 0.5\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3 ns, which is consistent with a deformation \ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{\approxeq}0.4. Spin and parity of ${2}^{+}$ are suggested for the ground state of $^{108}\mathrm{Nb}$. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Reevaluation of theP30(p,γ)S31astrophysical reaction rate from a study of theT=1/2mirror nuclei,S31andP31
The $^{30}\mathrm{P}$($p,\ensuremath{\gamma}$)$^{31}\mathrm{S}$ reaction rate is expected to be the principal determinant for the endpoint of nucleosynthesis in classical novae. To date, the reaction rate has only been estimated through Hauser-Feschbach calculations and is unmeasured experimentally. This paper aims to remedy this situation. Excited states in $^{31}\mathrm{S}$ and $^{31}\mathrm{P}$ were populated in the $^{12}\mathrm{C}$($^{20}\mathrm{Ne}$,$n$) and $^{12}\mathrm{C}$($^{20}\mathrm{Ne}$,$p$) reactions, respectively, at a beam energy of 32 MeV, and their resulting $\ensuremath{\gamma}$decay was detected with the Gammasphere array. Around half the relevant proton unbound states …
Precision Mass Measurements on Neutron-Rich Rare-Earth Isotopes at JYFLTRAP : Reduced Neutron Pairing and Implications for r-Process Calculations
The rare-earth peak in the r-process abundance pattern depends sensitively on both the astrophysical conditions and subtle changes in nuclear structure in the region. This work takes an important step towards elucidating the nuclear structure and reducing the uncertainties in r-process calculations via precise atomic mass measurements at the JYFLTRAP double Penning trap. Nd158, Pm160, Sm162, and Gd164-166 have been measured for the first time, and the precisions for Nd156, Pm158, Eu162,163, Gd163, and Tb164 have been improved considerably. Nuclear structure has been probed via two-neutron separation energies S2n and neutron pairing energy metrics Dn. The data do not support the existence of…
Characterization of a Be(p,xn) Neutron Source for Fission Yields Measurements
We report on measurements performed at The Svedberg Laboratory (TSL) to characterize a proton-neutron converter for independent fission yield studies at the IGISOL-JYFLTRAP facility (Jyv\"askyl\"a, Finland). A 30 MeV proton beam impinged on a 5 mm water-cooled Beryllium target. Two independent experimental techniques have been used to measure the neutron spectrum: a Time of Flight (TOF) system used to estimate the high-energy contribution, and a Bonner Sphere Spectrometer able to provide precise results from thermal energies up to 20 MeV. An overlap between the energy regions covered by the two systems will permit a cross-check of the results from the different techniques. In this paper, th…
Study of the β decay of fission products with the DTAS detector
Total Absorption Spectroscopy measurements of the β decay of 103Mo and 103Tc, important contributors to the decay heat summation calculation in reactors, are reported in this work. The analysis of the experiment, performed at IGISOL with the new DTAS detector, show new β intensity that was not detected in previous measurements with Ge detectors. peerReviewed
Production of neutron deficient rare isotope beams at IGISOL; on-line and off-line studies
This article reports on recent on-line yield measurements employing the light-ion and heavy-ion reaction-based ion guide systems and new results on a-recoil ion transport properties in ion guides with and without electric fields. In addition, the presently used ion guide designs for fusion evaporation reactions are introduced. The present study investigated different schemes for ion extraction from the gas cell. The addition of an extra ring electrode between the traditional skimmer electrode and the exit hole led to transmission independent of the primary beam intensity as opposed to strong intensity dependence observed earlier with the plain skimmer only. Furthermore, the mass resolving p…
Total absorption study of the \beta decay of 102,104,105Tc
The β-feeding probabilities for three important contributors to the decay heat in nuclear reactors, namely 102,104,105Tc, have been measured using the total absorption spectroscopy technique. For the measurements, sources of very high isobaric purity have been obtained using a Penning trap (JYFLTRAP). A detailed description of the data analysis is given and the results are compared with high-resolution measurements and theoretical calculations. peerReviewed
Fission studies at IGISOL/JYFLTRAP: Simulations of the ion guide for neutron-induced fission and comparison with experimental data
For the production of exotic nuclei at the IGISOL facility, an ion guide for neutron-induced fission has been developed and tested in experiments. Fission fragments are produced inside the ion guide and collected using a helium buffer gas. Meanwhile, a GEANT4 model has been developed to simulate the transportation and stopping of the charged fission products. In a recent measurement of neutron-induced fission yields, implantation foils were located at different positions in the ion guide. The gamma spectra from these foils and the fission targets are compared to the results from the GEANT4 simulation. In order to allow fission yield measurements in the low yield regions, towards the tails a…
Penning-trap-assisted study of excitations in Br88 populated in β decay of Se88
Excited levels of $^{88}\mathrm{Br}$ populated in the $\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay of $^{88}\mathrm{Se}$ have been studied by means of $\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ and $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ spectroscopy methods. Neutron-rich parent $^{88}\mathrm{Se}$ nuclei were produced with proton-induced fission of $^{238}\mathrm{U}$ using the Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) method and separated from contaminants using a dipole magnet and the coupled JYFLTRAP Penning trap at the Accelerator Laboratory of the University of Jyv\"askyl\"a. The level scheme of $^{88}\mathrm{Br}$ has been constructed and $logft$ values of levels were determined. The ground-state spin o…
Signatures of oblate deformation in the ^{111}Tc nucleus
Monoisotopic samples of exotic, neutron-rich ${}^{111}$Mo nuclei, produced in the deuteron-induced fission of ${}^{238}$U and separated using the IGISOL3 isotope separator, coupled to the JYFLTRAP Penning trap, were used to perform $\ensuremath{\beta}$- and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-coincidence spectroscopy of ${}^{111}$Tc. New excited levels in ${}^{111}$Tc populated in ${\ensuremath{\beta}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ decay of ${}^{111}$Mo provide the first indication for an oblate deformation in the mass $A\ensuremath{\approx}110$ region. The wide spin range of levels populated in ${}^{111}$Tc following the decay of ${}^{111}$Mo indicates the existence of two $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decaying levels in ${…
Precision experiments on exotic nuclei at IGISOL
Abstract Cooling and trapping techniques of low-energy radioactive ion beams of refractory elements employed at the IGISOL facility are presented with emphasis on high-precision measurements of the ground state properties of exotic nuclei. The impact of the new generation Paul and Penning traps on mass measurements of short-lived nuclei is discussed with examples on precision measurements of masses of super-allowed beta emitters and neutron-rich nuclei. As a new concept the trap-assisted spectroscopy of radioactive ions is presented with applications in collinear laser spectroscopy, decay spectroscopy of isobarically purified sources and in nuclear cross-section measurements by ion counting.
New ion-guide for the production of beams of neutron-rich nuclei between Z=20–28
It has been shown for the first time that quasi- and deep-inelastic reactions can be successfully incorporated into the conventional Ion-Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) technique. This is of particular interest for characterizing the decay properties of refractory elements and is applied to neutron rich nuclei between Z = 20-28. As a first step of this project, the kinematics of quasi- and deep-inelastic reactions, such as {sup 197}Au({sup 65}Cu,X)Y, were studied. Based on these studies, a specialized IGISOL target chamber was designed and built. This chamber was tested in on- and off-line conditions at the Jyvaskyla IGISOL facility. Yields of radioactive, projectile-like species s…
Beta decay of $^{56}$Cu
AbstractThe proton-rich isotope 56 Cu was produced at the GSI On-Line Mass Separator by means ofthe 28 Si( 32 S, p3n) fusion–evaporation reaction. Its β -decay properties were studied by detecting β -delayed γ rays and protons. A half-life of 93± 3 ms was determined for 56 Cu. Compared to theprevious work, six new γ rays and three new levels were assigned to the daughter nucleus 56 Ni. Themeasured Gamow–Teller strength values for five 56 Ni levels are compared toshell-model predictions. 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved. PACS: 21.10.-k; 23.40.-s; 21.60.Cs; 27.40.+zKeywords: R ADIOACTIVITY 56 Cu ( β + ) [from 28 Si( 32 S, p3n)]; Measured E γ , I ; Deduced β -intensity and β -st…
Characterization of a neutron–beta counting system with beta-delayed neutron emitters
A new detection system for the measurement of beta-delayed neutron emission probabilities has been characterized using fission products with well known β-delayed neutron emission properties. The setup consists of BELEN-20, a 4π neutron counter with twenty 3He proportional tubes arranged inside a large polyethylene neutron moderator, a thin Si detector for β counting and a selftriggering digital data acquisition system. The use of delayed-neutron precursors with different neutron emission windows allowed the study of the effect of energy dependency on neutron, β and β-neutron rates. The observed effect is well reproduced by Monte Carlo simulations. The impact of this dependency on the accura…
Discovery of an Exceptionally Strong β -Decay Transition of F20 and Implications for the Fate of Intermediate-Mass Stars
A significant fraction of stars between 7 and 11 solar masses are thought to become supernovae, but the explosion mechanism is unclear. The answer depends critically on the rate of electron capture on ^{20}Ne in the degenerate oxygen-neon stellar core. However, because of the unknown strength of the transition between the ground states of ^{20}Ne and ^{20}F, it has not previously been possible to fully constrain the rate. By measuring the transition, we establish that its strength is exceptionally large and that it enhances the capture rate by several orders of magnitude. This has a decisive impact on the evolution of the core, increasing the likelihood that the star is (partially) disrupte…
Towards commissioning the new IGISOL-4 facility
Abstract The Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line facility at the Accelerator Laboratory of the University of Jyvaskyla is currently being re-commissioned as IGISOL-4 in a new experimental hall. Access to intense beams of protons and deuterons from a new MCC30/15 cyclotron, with continued possibility to deliver heavy-ion beams from the K = 130 MeV cyclotron, offers extensive opportunities for long periods of fundamental experimental research, developments and applications. A new layout of beam lines with a considerable increase in floor space offers new modes of operation at the facility, as well as a possibility to incorporate more complex detector setups. We present a general overview of I…
Electron capture on116In and implications for nuclear structure related to double-βdecay
The electron capture decay branch of ${}^{116}$In has been measured to be $[2.46\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.44(\mathrm{stat}.)\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.39(\mathrm{syst}.)]\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}4}$ using Penning trap-assisted decay spectroscopy. The corresponding Gamow-Teller transition strength is shown to be compatible with the most recent value extracted from the $(p,n)$ charge-exchange reaction, providing a resolution to longstanding discrepancies. This transition can now be used as a reliable benchmark for nuclear-structure calculations of the matrix element for the neutrinoless double-$\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay of ${}^{116}$Cd and other nuclides.
Collective structure of the neutron-rich nuclei, 110Ru and 112Ru
Abstract The collective structure of 110 Ru and 112 Ru has been studied at the IGISOL facility through the beta decay of 110 Tc and 112 Tc. Neutron-rich technetium isotopes were produced by the 238 U(p, f) reaction at 20 MeV bombarding energy. The new isotope 112 Tc was found to decay with a half-life of 280(30) ms. The observed energies of the 2 + and 4 + ground state band levels in 108,110,112 Ru are almost the same. However, a steady energy decrease of the proposed gamma band head is observed with increasing neutron number, suggesting importance of triaxiality in these nuclei. In fact, only in 192 Os the second 2 + state has been observed at lower excitation than in 112 Ru. The static de…
Comparative effects of UVA and UVB irradiation on the immune system of fish.
Aquatic organisms can be harmed by the current levels of solar ultraviolet radiation. We have recently shown that exposure of fish to UVB irradiation alters the functioning of the fish immune system, but the effects of UVA radiation are unknown. The present study continues this work by characterizing UVA irradiation-induced immunological changes in fish. Roach, a cyprinid fish, were exposed to a single dose of either UVA (3.6 J/cm2) or UVB (0.5 J/cm2) irradiation. Both irradiations suppressed transiently mitogen-stimulated proliferation of blood lymphocytes. UVA, but not UVB, decreased hematocrit, plasma protein, and plasma immunoglobulin levels and increased the proportions of blood cells …
Developments for neutron-induced fission at IGISOL-4
At the IGISOL-4 facility, neutron-rich, medium mass nuclei have usually been produced via charged particle-induced fission of natural uranium and thorium. Neutron-induced fission is expected to have a higher production cross section of the most neutron-rich species. Development of a neutron source along with a new ion guide continues to be one of the major goals since the commissioning of IGISOL-4. Neutron intensities at di↵erent angles from a beryllium neutron source have been measured in an on-line experiment with a 30 MeV proton beam. Recently, the new ion guide coupled to the neutron source has been tested as well. Details of the neutron source and ion guide design together with prelimi…
Development of a laser ion source at IGISOL
FURIOS, the Fast Universal laser IOn Source, is under development at the IGISOL (Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line) mass separator facility in Jyvaskyla, Finland. This new laser ion source will combine a state-of-the-art solid state laser system together with a dye laser system, for the selective and efficient production of exotic radioactive species without compromising the universality and fast release inherent in the IGISOL system. The motivation for, and development of, this ion source is discussed in relation to the programme of research ongoing at this mass separator facility.
Cryogenic helium as stopping medium for high-energy ions
We have investigated the survival and transport efficiency of Ra-219 ions emitted by a Ra-223 source in high-density cryogenic helium gas, with ionisation of the gas induced by a proton beam. The combined efficiency of ion survival and transport by an applied electric field was measured as a function of ionisation rate density for electric fields up to 160 V/cm and for three temperature and density combinations: 77 K, 0.18 mg/cm(3), 10 K, 0.18 mg/cm(3) and 10 K, 0.54 mg/cm(3). At low beam intensity or high electric field, an efficiency of 30%, is obtained, confirming earlier results. A sharp drop in efficiency is observed at a "threshold" ionisation rate density which increases with the squ…
Super-Allowed β Decay of23Mg Studied with a High-Precision Germanium Detector
Large Impact of the Decay of Niobium Isomers on the Reactor ¯νe Summation Calculations
Even mass neutron-rich niobium isotopes are among the principal contributors to the reactor antineutrino energy spectrum. They are also among the most challenging to measure due to the refractory nature of niobium, and because they exhibit isomeric states lying very close in energy. The β-intensity distributions of 100gs;100mNb and 102gs;102mNb β decays have been determined using the total absorption γ-ray spectroscopy technique. The measurements were performed at the upgraded Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line facility at the University of Jyväskylä. Here, the double Penning trap system JYFLTRAP was employed to disentangle the β decay of the isomeric states. The new data obtained in this …
On-line laser spectroscopy of refractory radioisotopes at the JYFL IGISOL facility
A major objective of the laser-IGISOL program has been realized with the first ever on-line observation of collinear laser induced fluorescence from an ion of a refractory element. The measurements demonstrate that the IGISOL can be operated in a mode that produces ion beams of good emittance with reasonable extraction efficiency. The technique has been used to study the neutron-deficient Hf isotopes.
Retention of Pb isotopes in glass surfaces for retrospective assessment of radon exposure
Abstract In recent years there has been increasing interest in radio-epidemiological techniques to retrospectively measure the radon dose exposure by determining the activity of 210Pb, the longest-lived 222Rn progeny, in glass surface layers. In this study the diffusion of 39 keV 209Pb+ ions implanted into glass using the IGISOL facility has been studied under conditions that mimic the recoil implantation of 210Pb from 222Rn. The resulting depth distributions of 209Pb were then measured after heat treatment in vacuum at different temperatures by a sputter erosion technique. The diffusion coefficient could be described by an Arrhenius equation D = D0exp(−H/kT) where D 0 = 0.30 - 0.24 + 1.14 …
A new isomer in 125La
Levels in 125La have been studied via β+/EC decay of on-line mass-separated 125Ce using the HIGISOL technique. A new (390 ± 40) ms isomer is definitely attributed to 125La by conversion electron measurements of the 107 keV E3 isomeric transition.
Total absorption γ -ray spectroscopy of the β -delayed neutron emitters I137 and Rb95
The decays of the β-delayed neutron emitters I137 and Rb95 have been studied with the total absorption γ-ray spectroscopy technique. The purity of the beams provided by the JYFLTRAP Penning trap at the ion guide isotope separator on-line facility in Jyvaskyla allowed us to carry out a campaign of isotopically pure measurements with the decay total absorption γ-ray spectrometer, a segmented detector composed of 18 NaI(Tl) modules. The contamination coming from the interaction of neutrons with the spectrometer has been carefully studied, and we have tested the use of time differences between prompt γ rays and delayed neutron interactions to eliminate this source of contamination. Due to the s…
Measurement of the heaviest Beta-delayed 2-neutron emitter: 136Sb
The Beta-delayed neutron emission probability, Pn , of very exotic nuclei is crucial for the understanding of nuclear structure properties of many isotopes and astrophysical processes such as the rapid neutron capture process (r-process). In addition Beta-delayed neutrons are important in a nuclear power reactor operated in a prompt sub-critical, delayed critical condition, as they contribute to the decay heat inducing fission reactions after a shut down. The study of neutron-rich isotopes and the measurement of Beta-delayed one-neutron emitters (Beta1n) is possible thanks to the Rare Isotope Beam (RIB) facilities, where radioactive beams allow the production of exotic nuclei of interest, w…
Theoretical and experimental studies of the neutron rich fission product yields at intermediate energies
A new method to measure the fission product independent yields employing the ion guide technique and a Penning trap as a precision mass filter, which allows an unambiguous identification of the nuclides is presented. The method was used to determine the independent yields in the proton-induced fission of 232 Th and 238 U at 25 MeV. The data were analyzed with the consistent model for description of the fission product formation cross section at the projectile energies up to 100 MeV. Pre-compound nucleon emission is described with the two-component exciton model using Monte Carlo method. Decay of excited compound nuclei is treated within time-dependent statistical model with inclusion of the…
Characterization of a cylindrical plastic β-detector with Monte Carlo simulations of optical photons
In this work we report on the Monte Carlo study performed to understand and reproduce experimental measurements of a new plastic β-detector with cylindrical geometry. Since energy deposition simulations differ from the experimental measurements for such a geometry, we show how the simulation of production and transport of optical photons does allow one to obtain the shapes of the experimental spectra. Moreover, taking into account the computational effort associated with this kind of simulation, we develop a method to convert the simulations of energy deposited into light collected, depending only on the interaction point in the detector. This method represents a useful solution when extens…
Determination of β -decay ground state feeding of nuclei of importance for reactor applications
12 pags., 6 figs., 3 tabs.
β-delayed neutron decay of 104Y, 112Tc, 113Tc and 114Tc: test of half-life predictions for neutron-rich isotopes of refractory elements
Abstract Beta-decay gross properties of neutron-rich isotopes 104Y and 112,113,114Tc produced in 25 MeV proton-induced fission of 238U have been measured. Decays of 104Y with a half-life of 180±60 ms and of 114Tc with a half-life of 150±30 ms are reported for the first time. Beta-delayed neutron emission probabilities of 112,113,114Tc are determined as (1.5±0.2)%, (2.1±0.3)% and (1.3±0.4)%, respectively. Comparison of the observed Pn values with a recent theoretical calculation based on deformed quasiparticle random phase approximation (QRPA) shows good overall agreement for Tc isotopes. However, comparison of beta-decay half-lives of neutron-rich isotopes of Y to Rh with the QRPA model and…
Independent Isotopic Product Yields in 25 MeV and 50 MeV Charged Particle Induced Fission of 238U and 232Th
Abstract Independent isotopic yields for most elements from Zn to La in 25-MeV proton-induced fission of 238U and 232Th have been determined at the IGISOL facility in the University of Jyvaskyla. In addition, isotopic yields for Zn, Ga, Rb, Sr, Zr, Pd and Xe in 50-MeV proton-induced fission of 238U and for Zn, Ga, Rb, Sr, Cd and In in 25-MeV deuterium-induced fission of 238U have been measured. The utilised technique recently developed at the University of Jyvaskyla, is based on a combination of the ion guide technique and the ability of a Penning trap to unambiguously identify the isotopes by their atomic mass. Since the yields are determined by ion counting, no prior knowledge beyond the …
Precise measurements of half-lives and branching ratios for the ββ mirror transitions in the decay of 23Mg and 27Si
Half-lives and branching ratios for the two mirror ββ decays of 23Mg and 27Si have been measured at the University of Jyväskylä with the IGISOL facility. The results obtained, T1/2=11.303(3)T1/2=11.303(3) s and T1/2=4.112(2)T1/2=4.112(2) s for the half-lives of 23Mg and 27Si , respectively, are 7 and 8 times more precise than the averages of previous measurements. The values obtained for the super-allowed branching ratios of 23Mg and 27Si are B.R.=92.18(8)%B.R.=92.18(8)% and B.R.=99.74(2)%B.R.=99.74(2)% , respectively. The result for 23Mg is three times more precise than the average of the previous measurements, while for 27Si the precision has not been improved, the average of the previous…
Total absorption γ-ray spectroscopy of the β-delayed neutron emitters 87Br, 88Br, and 94Rb
We investigate the decay of 87,88Br and 94Rb using total absorption γ -ray spectroscopy. These important fission products are β-delayed neutron emitters. Our data show considerable βγ intensity, so far unobserved in high-resolution γ -ray spectroscopy, from states at high excitation energy. We also find significant differences with the β intensity that can be deduced from existing measurements of the β spectrum. We evaluate the impact of the present data on reactor decay heat using summation calculations. Although the effect is relatively small it helps to reduce the discrepancy between calculations and integral measurements of the photon component for 235U fission at cooling times in the r…
Strong γ-ray emission from neutron unbound states populated in β-decay: Impact on (n,γ) cross-section estimates
J. L. Taín et al. -- 6 pags., 7 figs., 1 tab. -- Open Access funded by Creative Commons Atribution Licence 4.0
Laser spectroscopy with an electrostatic ConeTrap
A compact electrostatic trap has been designed and installed as part of the recent upgrades to the IGISOL IV facility. The ConeTrap provides an in vacuo optical pumping site for low energy (800 eV) ionic ensembles available for interaction periods of 10-100 ms. At present, 6.7(3) % of injected mass A=98 ions can be trapped, stored for 5 ms, extracted and transported to a laser-ion interaction region. This fraction represents those ions for which no perturbation to total energy or energy spread is observed. Proposed enhancements to the trap are designed to improve the trapping efficiency by up to a factor of 5. Differential pumping and reduction in background pressure below the present 10−6 …
The 1+→0+ Gamow–Teller strength of the 58Cug.s.→58Nig.s. transition
The ground-state branch in the beta decay of Cu-58 has been remeasured by using gamma-ray detection combined with ion-guide-based on-line mass separation. The measured value 80.8(7)% is three times more precise and in agreement with the earlier reported value. The deduced Gamow-Teller strength of this transition, to be used for the calibration of the charge-exchange reactions, is 0.0821(7). (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Beta decay of $^{61}$Ga
The β decay of 61Ga to its mirror nucleus 61Zn has been measured for the first time by using on-line mass separation and β-delayed gamma-ray spectroscopy. The observed decay strength to the ground state implies superallowed character in accordance with the systematics of the mirror decays in the sd and fp shell. The β feedings observed to four excited states in 61Zn are consistent with earlier spin-parity assignments based on in-beam experiments. The ground-state spin and parity for 61Ga were determined to be 3/2−.
New lifetime measurements inPd109and the onset of deformation atN=60
Several new subnanosecond lifetimes were measured in Pd-109 using the fast-timing beta gamma gamma (t) method. Fission fragments of the A = 109 mass chain were produced by bombarding natural uranium with 30 MeV protons at the Jyvaskyla Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) facility. Lifetimes were obtained for excited states in Pd-109 populated following beta decay of Rh-109. The new lifetimes provide some insight into the evolution of nuclear structure in this mass region. In particular, the distinct structure of the two low-lying 7/2(+) states occurring systematically across the Pd isotopic chain is supported by the new lifetime measurements. The available nuclear data indicate a s…
Precision mass measurements of Fe67 and Co69,70 : Nuclear structure toward N=40 and impact on r -process reaction rates
Accurate mass measurements of neutron-rich iron and cobalt isotopes $^{67}\mathrm{Fe}$ and $^{69,70}\mathrm{Co}$ have been realized with the JYFLTRAP double Penning-trap mass spectrometer. With novel ion-manipulation techniques, the masses of the $^{69,70}\mathrm{Co}$ ground states and the $1/{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ isomer in $^{69}\mathrm{Co}$ have been extracted for the first time. The measurements remove ambiguities in the previous mass values and yield a smoother trend on the mass surface, extending it beyond $N=40$. The moderate $N=40$ subshell gap has been found to weaken below $^{68}\mathrm{Ni}$, a region known for shape coexistence and increased collectivity. The excitation energy for…
Total Absorption Spectroscopy of Fission Fragments Relevant for Reactor Antineutrino Spectra and Decay Heat Calculations
Volume: 111 Host publication title: WONDER-2015 Host publication sub-title: 4TH INTERNATIONAL WORKSHOP ON NUCLEAR DATA EVALUATION FOR REACTOR APPLICATIONS Isbn(print): 978-2-7598-1970-6 Beta decay of fission products is at the origin of decay heat and antineutrino emission in nuclear reactors. Decay heat represents about 7% of the reactor power during operation and strongly impacts reactor safety. Reactor antineutrino detection is used in several fundamental neutrino physics experiments and it can also be used for reactor monitoring and non-proliferation purposes. Rb-92,Rb-93 are two fission products of importance in reactor antineutrino spectra and decay heat, but their beta-decay properti…
Characterization of a cryogenic ion guide at IGISOL
A small volume cryogenic ion guide has been characterized at the IGISOL facility, Jyvaskyla, as a prototype to verify whether there are any major obstacles to the use of high-density cryogenic helium gas for the stopping and extraction of high-energy ions from a large volume cryogenic ion catcher. The expected temperature scaling of the mass flow through the ion guide has been confirmed, showing that for the same helium density, the differential pumping requirements are less stringent for cryogenic operation. At 90 K a clear reduction in the mass-analyzed impurities is achieved, although lower temperatures are required to freeze out oxygen and nitrogen. This is supported by the reduction in…
Neutron configurations in 113Pd
Excited states in 113Pd, populated in β− decay of 113Rh and in spontaneous fission of 248Cm and 252Cf, have been studied by means of γ spectroscopy at the IGISOL facility of Jyvaskylä University and using large arrays of Ge detectors (Eurogam2 and Gammasphere, respectively). The position of the 11/2− yrast excitation in 113Pd, proposed recently at 166.1 keV by other authors, has been corrected to 98.9 keV. The decay of this level has been discussed to explain the observed transition intensities. The 7/2− member of the yrast, unique-parity configuration has been identified at 84.9 keV and a band on top of this level proposed. On top of the 1/2+, first excited state a band has been built and …
Electron-capture branch ofTc100and tests of nuclear wave functions for double-βdecays
We present a measurement of the electron-capture branch of $^{100}\mathrm{Tc}$. Our value, $B(\mathrm{EC})=(2.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.4)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$, implies that the $^{100}\mathrm{Mo}$ neutrino absorption cross section to the ground state of $^{100}\mathrm{Tc}$ is roughly 50% larger than previously thought. Disagreement between the experimental value and QRPA calculations relevant to double-$\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay matrix elements persists. We find agreement with previous measurements of the 539.5- and 590.8-keV $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray intensities.
Neutron yield from a 13C thick target irradiated by protons of intermediate energy
Abstract Angular and energy distributions of neutrons produced by the interaction of protons of 20, 25 and 40 MeV in 13C targets, in which they are stopped, have been measured by time-of-flight and activation methods. Neutron yields are compared with a Monte-Carlo based model prediction and with the experimental neutron yields of proton and deuteron beams impinging on natural carbon thick targets. The gain with respect to p + 12C is only sizeable at the lowest proton energies. The neutron yield curve of p + 13C versus proton energy is definitely lower than the one of d + 12C, in contrast to the suggestion by an earlier published measurement at 30 MeV.
Excited states in 31S studied via beta decay of 31Cl
The beta decay of 31Cl has been studied with a silicon detector array and a HPGe detector at the IGISOL facility. Previously controversial proton peaks have been confirmed to belong to 31Cl and a new proton group with an energy of 762(14) keV has been found. Proton captures to this state at 6921(15) keV in 31S can have an effect on the reaction rate of 30P(p,γ) in ONe novae. Gamma rays of 1249.1(14) keV and 2234.5(8) keV corresponding to the de-excitations of the first two excited states in 31S have been measured. No beta-delayed protons from the IAS have been observed. peerReviewed
Gamma/neutron competition above the neutron separation energy in delayed neutron emitters
To study the β-decay properties of some well known delayed neutron emitters an experiment was performed in 2009 at the IGISOL facility (University of Jyvaskyla in Finland) using Total Absorption -ray Spectroscopy (TAGS) technique. The aim of these measurements is to obtain the full β-strength distribution below the neutron separation energy (Sn) and the γ/neutron competition above. This information is a key parameter in nuclear technology applications as well as in nuclear astrophysics and nuclear structure. Preliminary results of the analysis show a significant γ-branching ratio above Sn. © Owned by the authors, published by EDP Sciences, 2014.
Precision Mass Measurements beyond $^{132}$Sn: Anomalous behaviour of odd-even staggering of binding energies
Atomic masses of the neutron-rich isotopes $^{121-128}$Cd, $^{129,131}$In, $^{130-135}$Sn, $^{131-136}$Sb, and $^{132-140}$Te have been measured with high precision (10 ppb) using the Penning trap mass spectrometer JYFLTRAP. Among these, the masses of four r-process nuclei $^{135}$Sn, $^{136}$Sb, and $^{139,140}$Te were measured for the first time. The data reveals a strong $N$=82 shell gap at $Z$=50 but indicates the importance of correlations for $Z>50$. An empirical neutron pairing gap expressed as the odd-even staggering of isotopic masses shows a strong quenching across $N$=82 for Sn, with the $Z$-dependence that is unexplainable by the current theoretical models.
$Q$-value of the superallowed $\beta$ decay of 62Ga
Masses of the radioactive isotopes 62Ga, 62Zn and 62Cu have been measured at the JYFLTRAP facility with a relative precision of better than 18 ppb. A Q_EC value of (9181.07 +- 0.54) keV for the superallowed decay of 62Ga is obtained from the measured cyclotron frequency ratios of 62Ga-62Zn, 62Ga-62Ni and 62Zn-62Ni ions. The resulting Ft-value supports the validity of the conserved vector current hypothesis (CVC). The mass excess values measured were (-51986.5 +-1.0) keV for 62Ga, (-61167.9 +- 0.9) keV for 62Zn and (-62787.2 +- 0.9) keV for 62Cu.
Production of pure samples of 131mXe and 135Xe
Pure samples of (131m)Xe, (133m)Xe, (133)Xe and (135)Xe facilitate the calibration and testing of noble gas sampler stations and related laboratory instrumentation. We have earlier reported a Penning trap-based production method for pure (133m)Xe and (133)Xe samples. Here we complete the work by reporting the successful production of pure (131m)Xe and (135)Xe samples using the same technique. In addition, we present data on xenon release from graphite.
Simulations of the stopping efficiencies of fission ion guides
With the Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) facility, located at the University of Jyväskylä, products of nuclear reactions are separated by mass. The high resolving power of the JYFLTRAP Penning trap, with full separation of individual nuclides, capacitates the study of nuclides far from the line of stability. For the production of neutron-rich medium-heavy nuclides, fissioning of actinides is a feasible reaction. This can be achieved with protons from an in-house accelerator or, alternatively, with neutrons through the addition of a newly developed Be(p,xn)-converter. The hereby-obtained fission products are used in nuclear data measurements, for example fission yields, nuclear …
Investigation of a gas catcher/ion guide system at the Warsaw cyclotron
NESTER ACC; The properties of a gas-catcher/ion guide system, connected to a mass separator at the Heavy Ion Laboratory of Warsaw University, were investigated by using the α-decay recoil products 219Rn and 215Po, obtained from a 223Ra source. The “plasma effect” was studied by using a 14N beam with intensities ranging from 7 to 64 particledot operatornA, which correspond to power depositions between 1.6 dot operator 1016 and 7.2 dot operator 1017 eV/s for helium pressures of 75 and 380 hPa, respectively.
α-decay properties ofPb181
The isotope {sup 181}Pb was produced in {sup 92}Mo bombardments of {sup 90}Zr and, together with other reaction products, was passed through a recoil mass separator and implanted in a double-sided silicon strip detector for {alpha}-particle assay. The half-life and energy of the main {sup 181}Pb {alpha} transition were determined to be 45 (20) ms and 7065 (20) keV, respectively. This {sup 181}Pb {ital E}{sub {alpha}} agrees with one previously measured value [7044 (15) keV], but not with the one [7211 (10) keV] used as input to the 1993 Atomic Mass Evaluation. The 6180-keV {alpha} transition assigned to {sup 181}Tl by Bolshakov {ital et} {ital al}. was observed, but the 6566-keV {alpha} par…
Symmetries in mirror nuclei $^{31}$S and $^{31}$P
Excited states in mirror nuclei 31S and 31P were populated in the 1n and 1p exit channels, respectively, of the reaction 20Ne + 12C. The beam of 20Ne, with an energy of 33 MeV, was delivered for the first time by the Piave-Alpi accelerator of the Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro. Angular correlations of coincident pairs and Doppler-shift attenuation lifetime measurements in 31S and 31P were performed using the multidetector array GASP in conjunction with the EUCLIDES charged particle detector. A comparison of the determined B(E1) strengths of the analog mirror 7/2- → 5/2+ transitions indicates the presence of a violation of isospin symmetry.
Total absorption spectroscopy of fission fragments relevant for reactor antineutrino spectra
International audience; The accurate determination of reactor antineutrino spectra remains a very active research topic for which new methods of study have emerged in recent years. Indeed, following the long-recognized reactor anomaly (measured antineutrino deficit in short baseline reactor experiments when compared with spectral predictions), the three international reactor neutrino experiments Double Chooz, Daya Bay and Reno have recently demonstrated the existence of spectral distortions in their measurements with respect to the same predictions. These spectral predictions were obtained through the conversion of integral beta-energy spectra obtained at the ILL research reactor. Several s…
Low-spin excitations in the 109Tc nucleus
Monoisotopic samples of ${}^{109}$Mo nuclei, produced in the deuteron-induced fission of ${}^{238}$U and separated using the IGISOL mass separator coupled to a Penning trap, were used to perform $\ensuremath{\beta}$- and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-coincidence spectroscopy of ${}^{109}$Tc. Spin and parity 5/2${}^{+}$ for the ground state of ${}^{109}$Mo, proposed earlier, are supported in the present work. Three new low-energy levels observed in ${}^{109}$Tc are interpreted as bandheads of the $\ensuremath{\pi}3/{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$[301], $\ensuremath{\pi}5/{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$[303], and $\ensuremath{\pi}1/{2}^{+}$[431] configurations, respectively. A further three levels observed around 0.4 Me…
Radioactive ion beam manipulation at the IGISOL-4 facility
The IGISOL-4 facility in the JYFL Accelerator Laboratory of the University of Jyvaskyla (JYFL-ACCLAB) produces low-energy radioactive ion beams, primarily for nuclear spectroscopy, utilizing an ion guide-based, ISOL-type mass separator. Recently, new ion manipulation techniques have been introduced at the IGISOL-4 including the application of the PI-ICR (Phase-Imaging Ion Cyclotron Resonance) technique at the JYFLTRAP Penning trap, as well as commissioning of a Multi-Reflection Time-Of-Flight (MR-TOF) separator/spectrometer. The successful operation of the MR-TOF also required significant improvement of the Radio-Frequency Quadrupole (RFQ) cooler and buncher device beam pulse time structure…
Upgrade and yields of the IGISOL facility
The front end of the Jyvaskyla IGISOL facility was upgraded in 2003 by increasing its pumping capacity and by improving the radiation shielding. In late 2005, the skimmer electrode of the mass separator was replaced by a sextupole ion guide, which improved the mass separator efficiency up to an order of magnitude. The current design of the facility is described. The updated yield data, achieved with and without the additional JYFLTRAP purification, using both fusion evaporation reactions and particle induced fission is presented to give an overview of the capability of the facility. These data have been determined either by radioactivity measurements or by direct ion counting after the Penn…
Decay of the neutron-rich isotope 113Ru to 113Rh
The decay of neutron-rich isotope 113Ru obtained as on-line mass separated product of proton-induced fission has been investigated by γγ coincidence and spectrum multiscaling measurements. Decay schemes for both low- and high-spin isomers of 113Ru have been constructed. The level scheme of 113Rh is considerably extended. Systematics of the lowest-lying rhodium levels is smooth. The picture of shape coexistence established for neutron-rich Rh isotopes near-neutron midshell is confirmed with the observation of a K = 1/2 deformed band, with its 3/2+ state at 600 keV being the lowest-lying level and of probable 7/2+ and 5/2+ band members. A large fraction of β feeding is found to populate high-…
A new 400 ms isomer in125Ce→125La
By using the IGISOL technique, adapted for the study of products of heavy ion induced fusion-evaporation reactions, it has been possible to identify a new isomer in the mass chainA=125.
Characterization of a neutron-beta counting system with beta-delayed neutron emitters
Abstract A new detection system for the measurement of beta-delayed neutron emission probabilities has been characterized using fission products with well known β-delayed neutron emission properties. The setup consists of BELEN-20, a 4π neutron counter with twenty 3He proportional tubes arranged inside a large polyethylene neutron moderator, a thin Si detector for β counting and a self-triggering digital data acquisition system. The use of delayed-neutron precursors with different neutron emission windows allowed the study of the effect of energy dependency on neutron, β and β–neutron rates. The observed effect is well reproduced by Monte Carlo simulations. The impact of this dependency on …
Status report of the SARA IGISOL used in the study of the 238U(α 40 MeV, ƒ) reaction
Abstract A new ion guide isotope separator on-line (IGISOL), operating with the SARA facility, has been constructed. Using the 238U(α 40 MeV, ƒ) reaction to produce very neutron-rich radioisotopes, all mass chains from A = 96 to 122 have been scanned by conventional methods of nuclear spectroscopy. Provided the stopping volume is separated from the primary beam, it has been proved that the yield is nearly proportional to the He pressure. In addition to the usual advantages (quasi-independence from physical and chemical properties of elements), this makes IGISOL a powerful technique for high energy recoil products. During the experiments the boundary of known neutron-rich nuclei was reached …
Total absorption γ-ray spectroscopy of beta delayed neutron emitters
Preliminary results of the data analysis of the beta decay of 94Rb using a novel - segmented- total absorption spectrometer are shown in this contribution. This result is part of a systematic study of important contributors to the decay heat problem in nuclear reactors. In this particular case the goal is to determine the beta intensity distribution below the neutron separation energy and the gamma/beta competition above.
Total absorption spectroscopy of 58Cu decay
The β decay of 58Cu has been studied by means of total absorption γ-ray spectroscopy. The β feeding to the 58Ni states has been measured, and the strength of the 58Cu(1+) →58Ni(0+) Gamow-Teller transition has been determined with improved accuracy.
Beta-Decay Half-Lives and Neutron-Emission Probabilities of Very Neutron-Rich Y to Tc Isotopes
Neutron-rich {sub 39}Y to {sub 43}Tc isotopes have been produced by fission of uranium with a 50MeV H{sub 2}{sup +} beam. Beta-decay half-lives, delayed neutron-emission probabilities, and production yields have been measured and compared with theory. Beta decay of 4 new isotopes is reported, and the {beta}-delayed neutron-emission mode has been discovered for 12 isotopes of the elements niobium and technetium. The results compared to quasiparticle random phase approximation predictions indicate the increasing importance of fast {beta} transitions to high-lying states of nuclei with large neutron excess. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}
Towards on-line production of N=Z94Ag at IGISOL
Abstract A future study of the ground state and low-lying isomeric states of 94 Ag and 96 Ag at the Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) facility, University of Jyvaskyla, requires the development of a low-energy beam of neutron-deficient silver. In order to attain the highest possible extraction efficiencies the coupling of a hot cavity graphite catcher device to the IGISOL mass-separator is planned. A heavy-ion fusion-evaporation reaction will produce the silver recoils which will be captured in the graphite catcher. Resonant laser ionization techniques will be applied to efficiently and selectively ionize the evaporated silver atoms. A simulation program has been written to study…
Isomeric states close to doubly magic $^{132}$Sn studied with JYFLTRAP
The double Penning trap mass spectrometer JYFLTRAP has been employed to measure masses and excitation energies for $11/2^-$ isomers in $^{121}$Cd, $^{123}$Cd, $^{125}$Cd and $^{133}$Te, for $1/2^-$ isomers in $^{129}$In and $^{131}$In, and for $7^-$ isomers in $^{130}$Sn and $^{134}$Sb. These first direct mass measurements of the Cd and In isomers reveal deviations to the excitation energies based on results from beta-decay experiments and yield new information on neutron- and proton-hole states close to $^{132}$Sn. A new excitation energy of 144(4) keV has been determined for $^{123}$Cd$^m$. A good agreement with the precisely known excitation energies of $^{121}$Cd$^m$, $^{130}$Sn$^m$, an…
Structure of 115Ag studied by β− decays of 115Pd and 115mPd
The excited levels of 115Ag have been studied via the beta decay of 115Pd and 115Pdm. The beta-decay schemes for both states have been considerably extended, especially the scheme following the decay of 115Pdm which was practically unknown before this work. Transition intensities and log10 f t values are reported, which have been missing in the literature. A set of levels around 2 MeV has been found to be strongly populated by the beta decay of the ground state of 115Pd and is suggested to have a three-quasiparticle nature. The properties of excited levels have been compared with the level systematics of lighter neutron-rich silver isotopes, and new spin assignments as well as identificatio…
Nuclear moments, charge radii and spins of the ground and isomeric states in175Yb and177Yb
This paper reports static moments and changes in mean-square charge radii of 175, 177, 177mYb measured using collinear laser spectroscopy at the IGISOL facility. The moments are compared to predictions made using the Nilsson model to determine the purity of the multi-quasiparticle T1/2 = 11.4 s, Iπ = 8− state of 176Yb and the ground state of 177Yb. The ground-state spins of 175, 177Yb and the T1/2 = 6.41 s, E = 331.5 keV isomeric state in 177Yb, have been measured from the hyperfine structure to be 7/2, 9/2 and 1/2 respectively.
The shape transition in the neutron-rich yttrium isotopes and isomers
Abstract Laser spectroscopy has been used to study 86–90,92–102Y and isomeric states of 87–90,93,96,97,98Y. Nuclear charge radii differences, magnetic dipole and electric quadrupole moments have been obtained. Information on the nature of the Z ≈ 40 , N ≈ 60 sudden onset of deformation has been derived from all three parameters. It is seen that with increasing neutron number from the N = 50 shell closure that the nuclear deformation becomes increasingly oblate and increasingly soft. At N = 60 a transition to a strongly deformed rigid prolate shape occurs but prior to this, although the nuclear deformation is increasing with N, a proportionate increase in softness is also observed.
Half-life, branching-ratio, andQ-value measurement for the superallowed0+→0+β+emitterTi42
The half-life, the branching ratio, and the decay $Q$ value of the superallowed $\ensuremath{\beta}$ emitter $^{42}\mathrm{Ti}$ were measured in an experiment performed at the JYFLTRAP facility of the Accelerator Laboratory of the University of Jyv\"askyl\"a. $^{42}\mathrm{Ti}$ is the heaviest ${T}_{z}=\ensuremath{-}1$ nucleus for which high-precision measurements of these quantities have been tried. The half-life (${T}_{1/2}=208.14\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.45$ ms) and the $Q$ value [${Q}_{\mathrm{EC}}=7016.83(25)$ keV] are close to or reach the required precision of about 0.1%. The branching ratio for the superallowed decay branch [$\mathrm{BR}=47.7(12)%$], a by-product of the half-lif…
Studying exotic nuclides close to the N = Z line at the HIGISOL facility
The ion guide [1, 2] for heavy-ion fusion-evaporation reactions (HIGISOL) which was developed by Beraud et al. [3] has been implemented at the IGISOL facility in Jyvaskyla [4]. This system was modified over the past 5 years. Figure 1 shows the present set-up. The HIGISOL takes advantage of the different angular distributions of primary beam and reaction products: the primary beam is stopped in front of the stopping chamber and the reaction products enter the stopping chamber through a thin foil passing the beam stop. This so called “shadow” method removes the plasma effect since the primary beam is not ionising the stopping gas. In order to improve ion optical properties, mainly to reduce t…
Measurement of fission products β decay properties using a total absorption spectrometer
In a nuclear reactor, the decay of fission fragments is at the origin of decay heat and antineutrino flux. These quantities are not well known while they are very important for reactor safety and for our understanding of neutrino physics. One reason for the discrepancies observed in the estimation of the decay heat and antineutrinos flux coming from reactors could be linked with the Pandemonium effect. New measurements have been performed at the JYFL facility of Jyvaskyla with a Total Absorption Spectrometer (TAS) in order to circumvent this effect. An overview of the TAS technique and first results from the 2009 measurement campaign will be presented. © Owned by the authors, published by E…
R-matrix analysis of theβdecays ofN12andB12
The β decays of 12N and 12B have been studied at KVI and JYFL to resolve the composition of the broad and interfering 0+ and 2+ strengths in the triple-α continuum. For the first time a complete treatment of 3α decay is presented including all major breakup channels. A multilevel, many-channel R-matrix formalism has been developed for the complete description of the breakup in combination with the recently published separate analysis of angular correlations. We find that, in addition to the Hoyle state at 7.65 MeV, more than one 0+ and 2+ state is needed to reproduce the spectra. Broad 03+ and 22+ states are found between 10.5 and 12 MeV in this work. The presence of β strength up to the 12…
Ground state properties of manganese isotopes across the N=28 shell closure
Abstract The first optical study of the N = 28 shell closure in manganese is reported. Mean-square charge radii and quadrupole moments, obtained for ground and isomeric states in 50–56 Mn, are extracted using new calculations of atomic factors. The charge radii show a well defined shell closure at the magic number. The behaviour of the charge radii is strikingly different to that of the neutron separation energies where no shell effect can be observed. The nuclear parameters can be successfully described by large scale shell model calculations using the GXPF1A interaction.
Measurement of fission yields and isomeric yield ratios at IGISOL
Data on fission yields and isomeric yield ratios (IYR) are tools to study the fission process, in particular the generation of angular momentum. We use the IGISOL facility with the Penning trap JYFLTRAP in Jyväskylä, Finland, for such measurements on 232Th and natU targets. Previously published fission yield data from IGISOL concern the 232Th(p,f) and 238U(p,f) reactions at 25 and 50 MeV. Recently, a neutron source, using the Be(p,n) reaction, has been developed, installed and tested. We summarize the results for (p,f) focusing on the first measurement of IYR by direct ion counting. We also present first results for IYR and relative yields for Sn and Sb isotopes in the 128-133 mass range fr…
Mirror energy differences in theA=31mirror nuclei,S31andP31, and their significance in electromagnetic spin-orbit splitting
Excited states in $^{31}\mathrm{S}$ and $^{31}\mathrm{P}$ were populated in the $^{12}\mathrm{C}$($^{20}\mathrm{Ne}$,n) and $^{12}\mathrm{C}$($^{20}\mathrm{Ne}$,p) reactions, respectively, at a beam energy of 32 MeV. High spin states of positive and negative parity have been observed in $^{31}\mathrm{S}$ for the first time, and the yrast scheme of $^{31}\mathrm{P}$ has been extended. Large mirror energy differences between the first $9/{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ and $13/{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ states were observed, but only small differences for the first $7/{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ and $11/{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ levels. The significance of these observations is discussed in relation to the electromag…
Exploring the mass surface near the rare-earth abundance peak via precision mass measurements at JYFLTRAP
The JYFLTRAP double Penning trap at the Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) facility has been used to measure the atomic masses of 13 neutron-rich rare-earth isotopes. Eight of the nuclides, $^{161}$Pm, $^{163}$Sm, $^{164,165}$Eu, $^{167}$Gd, and $^{165,167,168}$Tb, were measured for the first time. The systematics of the mass surface has been studied via one- and two-neutron separation energies as well as neutron pairing-gap and shell-gap energies. The proton-neutron pairing strength has also been investigated. The impact of the new mass values on the astrophysical rapid neutron capture process has been studied. The calculated abundance distribution results in a better agreement w…
β-decay data requirements for reactor decay heat calculations: study of the possible source of the gamma-ray discrepancy in reactor heat summation calculations
The decay heat of fission products plays an important role in predictions of the heat up of nuclear fuel in reactors. The released energy is calculated as the summation of the activities of allfission products P(t) = Ei λi Ni(t), where Ei is the decay energy of nuclide i (gamma and beta component), λi is the decay constant of nuclide i and Ni(t) is the number of nuclide i at cooling time t. Even though the reproduction of the measured decay heat has improved in recent years, there is still a long standing discrepancy in the t ∼ 1000s cooling time for some fuels. A possible explanation to this improper description has been found in the work of Yoshida et al. (1), where it has been shown that…
First collinear laser spectroscopy measurements of radioisotopes from an IGISOL ion source
Abstract The standard Doppler-free technique of collinear laser spectroscopy has been successfully applied to radioisotopes from the ion-guide isotope separator (IGISOL) at the University of Jyvaskyla. The laser resonance fluorescence signals for the 140,142,144 Ba radioisotopes show that the ion beam energy spread is less than 6 eV, allowing the laser technique to have both high resolution and a sensitivity comparable with the best obtained at conventional facilities.
Medium-spin structure of neutron-rich Pd and Cd isotopes
Cadmium isotopes are traditionally considered as good examples of nearly spherical, vibrational nuclei, which can be described by quadrupole vibrators in the collective model, as well as the U(5) dynamical symmetry in the interacting boson model (IBM). However, the shape coexistence of more deformed intruder states originating from proton 2p–4h excitation across the Z = 50 major shell is another interesting structural aspect, whose presence in Pd-isotopes has also been demonstrated [1,2].
Independent isotopic yields in 25 MeV and 50 MeV proton-induced fission of natU
Independent isotopic yields for elements from Zn to La in the 25 MeV proton-induced fission of natUnatU were determined with the JYFLTRAP facility. In addition, isotopic yields for Zn, Ga, Rb, Sr, Zr, Pd and Xe in the 50 MeV proton-induced fission of natUnatU were measured. The deduced isotopic yield distributions are compared with a Rubchenya model, the GEF model with universal parameters and the semi-empirical Wahl model. Of these, the Rubchenya model gives the best overall agreement with the obtained data. Combining the isotopic yield data with mass yield data to obtain the absolute independent yields was attempted. The result depends on the mass yield distribution. peerReviewed
Total Absorption Spectroscopy of Fission Fragments Relevant for Reactor Antineutrino Spectra and Decay Heat Calculations
Beta decay of fission products is at the origin of decay heat and antineutrino emission in nuclear reactors. Decay heat represents about 7% of the reactor power during operation and strongly impacts reactor safety. Reactor antineutrino detection is used in several fundamental neutrino physics experiments and it can also be used for reactor monitoring and non-proliferation purposes. 92,93Rb are two fission products of importance in reactor antineutrino spectra and decay heat, but their β-decay properties are not well known. New measurements of 92,93Rb β-decay properties have been performed at the IGISOL facility (Jyväskylä, Finland) using Total Absorption Spectroscopy (TAS). TAS is complemen…
Structure of115Ag studied byβ−decays of115Pd and115Pdm
The excited levels of ${}^{115}$Ag have been studied via the beta decay of ${}^{115}$Pd and ${}^{115}$Pd${}^{m}$. The beta-decay schemes for both states have been considerably extended, especially the scheme following the decay of ${}^{115}$Pd${}^{m}$ which was practically unknown before this work. Transition intensities and ${\mathrm{log}}_{10}ft$ values are reported, which have been missing in the literature. A set of levels around 2 MeV has been found to be strongly populated by the beta decay of the ground state of ${}^{115}$Pd and is suggested to have a three-quasiparticle nature. The properties of excited levels have been compared with the level systematics of lighter neutron-rich sil…
New insights into triaxiality and shape coexistence from odd-mass Rh109
Rapid shape evolutions near A = 100 are now the focus of much attention in nuclear science. Much of the recent work has been centered on isotopes with Z <= 40, where the shapes are observed to transition between near-spherical to highly deformed with only a single pair of neutrons added. At higher Z, the shape transitions become more gradual as triaxiality sets in, yet the coexistence of varying shapes continues to play an important role in the low-energy nuclear structure, particularly in the odd-Z isotopes. This work aims to characterize competing shapes in the triaxial region between Zr and Sn isotopes using ultrafast timing techniques to measure lifetimes of excited states in the neutro…
Measurement of the IAS resonance strength in 23Mg
Abstract Beta decay of 23 Al to excited states in 23 Mg has been studied using low-energy proton and high-energy gamma-ray detection combined with ion-guide-based on-line mass separation. For the first time, a T =3/2 isobaric analogue state, at 7801(2) keV, was observed to decay by both proton and gamma emission, with a proton branching of 0.17(8)%. The deduced resonance strength ωγ =2.2(10) meV is in agreement with upper limits reported from 22 Na(p, γ ) reaction studies. Shell-model calculations are incorporated.
Candidate superdeformed band in 28Si
Recent antisymmetrized molecular dynamics (AMD) calculations for 28Si suggest the presence of a superdeformed (SD) band with a dominant 24Mg + α clustering for its configuration, with firm predictions for its location and associated moment of inertia. This motivates a review of the experimental results reported in the literature with a particular focus on 24Mg(α,γ ) studies, as well as on α-like heavy-ion transfer reactions such as 12C(20Ne,α) 28Si. Combining this information for the first time leads to a set of candidate SD states whose properties point to their α-cluster structure and strong associated deformation. Analysis of data from Gammasphere allows the electromagnetic decay of thes…
Excited levels in the multishaped 117Pd nucleus studied via β decay of 117Rh
Monoisotopic samples of exotic, neutron-rich 117Rh nuclei, produced in the proton-induced fission of 238U and separated using the IGISOL mass separator coupled to the JYFLTRAP Penning trap, were used to perform β and γ coincidence spectroscopy of 117Pd. The spin parity of the ground state of 117Pd was determined to be 1/2+ and the 19.1 ms isomer at 203.2 keV was assigned a spin-parity 7/2−. The 117Rh β−-decay scheme was considerably extended, and various sequences of the levels were interpreted as resulting from the prolate, oblate, and triaxial nuclear shapes. Some of the β− decays were considered as the allowed Gamow-Teller transitions. The experimental distribution of Gamow-Teller streng…
Candidate superdeformed band in 28Si
Level structure of 99Nb
The β decay of 97Sr to 97Y has been investigated using ion-guide on-line mass separation and a 10 Ge-detector array to record γ−γ coincidences to a detection limit well below that of former studies. Similarities are found in the β-decay patterns of 99Zr and of its isotone 97Sr and also in the γ-ray decay rates and branchings of the corresponding levels in their respective daughters 99Nb and 97Y. This indicates a persisting influence of the d5/2 neutron shell closure for 99Nb. The level structure of 99Nb and the β-feeding pattern are discussed in the frame of the interacting boson-fermion plus broken pair model and the microscopic quasiparticle phonon model.
Trap-assisted studies of odd, neutron-rich isotopes from Tc to Pd
We review the present and future of trap-assisted structure studies of odd, neutron-rich Tc, Ru, Rh and Pd isotopes at the limits of present experimental techniques. These nuclei of refractory elements are produced in light-particle induced fission and filtered by their mass number with the IGISOL mass separator. Further mass separation with the JYFLTRAP Penning trap system provides a clean, monoisotopic beam perfectly suited for precise nuclear spectroscopy. Connecting the IGISOL and the JYFLTRAP facilities to the recently installed MCC30/15 cyclotron opens new prospects for post-trap spectroscopy of very exotic, neutron-rich nuclei. peerReviewed
Shape coexistence near the double-midshell nucleus 111Rh
The decay of 111Ru obtained from fast on-line chemical and mass separation has been investigated by β-γ-t and γ-γ coincidence techniques. Earlier spin and parity assignments of 111Rh levels based on extrapolations of level systematics are confirmed. In particular, the K=1/2 intruder band is supported by the hindrance of E2 transitions between deformed and spherical states and enhancement of intraband E2 transitions. The excitation energies of intruder band members in Rh isotopes show a minimum at 109Rh64, with two neutrons less than 111Rh at the N=66 midshell. This trend, which differs from the one in the higher-Z neighbouring elements Ag and Cd with minima at N=66, follows the evolution of…
Measurements of isomeric yield ratios of fission products from proton-induced fission on natU and 232Th via direct ion counting
Independent isomeric yield ratios (IYR) of 81Ge, 96Y, 97Y, 97Nb, 128Sn and 130Sn have been determined in the 25 MeV proton-induced fission of natU and 232Th. The measurements were performed at the Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) facility at the University of Jyväskylä. A direct ion counting measurement of the isomeric fission yield ratios was accomplished for the first time, registering the fission products in less than a second after their production. In addition, the IYRs of natU were measured by means of γ-spectroscopy in order to verify the consistency of the recently upgraded experimental setup. From the obtained results, indications of a dependence of the production rate …
Penning-trap-assisted study of 115Ru beta decay
The beta decay of 115Ru has been studied by means of Penning-trap-assisted beta and gamma spectroscopy at the IGISOL facility. The level scheme of 115Rh has been substantially extended and compared with the level systematics of lighter rhodium isotopes. Tentative candidates for three states of the deformed K = 1/2 band have been suggested. The beta-strength distribution of the beta decay of 115Ru differs from the beta decays of 111, 113, 113mRu isotopes due to non-observation of the 3-quasiparticle states in 115Rh. The decay properties of 115Ru indicate a spin-parity of (3/2+ for its beta-decaying ground state. In addition, possible Nilsson states as well as the shape and spin transitions i…
Study of Proton and 3He Induced Reactions on 235U at Low Energies
Abstract Highly enriched 235 U targets were irradiated with 6.5 − 16.1 MeV protons and 20.4 − 42.0 MeV 3 He ions. The irradiated targets were measured with γ and α spectrometric methods to identify and quantify the produced reaction products. After primary activity measurements the targets were dissolved, and interesting Pu and Np reaction products were chemically separated from the target material, and measured for activity again. From the activity results it was possible to calculate the reaction cross sections for differently produced nuclides. The data obtained from the experiment resulted in earlier unknown excitation functions on proton and 3 He induced nuclear reactions on 235 U.
Total Absorption Study of Beta Decays Relevant for Nuclear Applications and Nuclear Structure
Abstract An overview is given of our activities related to the study of the beta decay of neutron rich nuclei relevant for nuclear applications. Recent results of the study of the beta decay of 87,88 Br using a new segmented total absorption spectrometer are presented. The measurements were performed at the IGISOL facility using trap-assisted total absorption spectroscopy.
Electron capture on 116In and implications for nuclear structure related to double-\beta decay
The electron capture decay branch of 116In has been measured to be [2.46 ± 0.44(stat.) ± 0.39(syst.)] × 10−4 using Penning trap-assisted decay spectroscopy. The corresponding Gamow-Teller transition strength is shown to be compatible with the most recent value extracted from the (p, n) charge-exchange reaction, providing a resolution to longstanding discrepancies. This transition can now be used as a reliable benchmark for nuclearstructure calculations of the matrix element for the neutrinoless double-β decay of 116Cd and other nuclides. peerReviewed
βdecay of neutron-rich118Agand120Agisotopes
$\ensuremath{\beta}$ decays of on-line mass-separated neutron-rich ${}^{118}\mathrm{Ag}$ and ${}^{120}\mathrm{Ag}$ isotopes have been studied by using $\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ and $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ coincidence spectroscopy. Extended decay schemes to the ${}^{118,120}\mathrm{Cd}$ daughter nuclei have been constructed. The three-phonon quintuplet in ${}^{118}\mathrm{Cd}$ is completed by including a new level at 2023.0 keV, which is tentatively assigned the spin and parity of ${2}_{4}^{+}.$ The intruder band in ${}^{118}\mathrm{Cd}$ is proposed up to the ${4}^{+}$ level at 2322.4 keV. The measured $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay half…
Mass Measurements and Implications for the Energy of the High-Spin Isomer inAg94
Nuclides in the vicinity of {sup 94}Ag have been studied with the Penning trap mass spectrometer JYFLTRAP at the Ion-Guide Isotope Separator On-Line. The masses of the two-proton-decay daughter {sup 92}Rh and the beta-decay daughter {sup 94}Pd of the high-spin isomer in {sup 94}Ag have been measured, and the masses of {sup 93}Pd and {sup 94}Ag have been deduced. When combined with the data from the one-proton- or two-proton-decay experiments, the results lead to contradictory mass excess values for the high-spin isomer in {sup 94}Ag, -46 370(170) or -44 970(100) keV, corresponding to excitation energies of 6960(400) or 8360(370) keV, respectively.
Isomers of astrophysical interest in neutron-deficient nuclei at masses A = 81, 85 and 86
Decay properties of neutron-deficient exotic nuclei close to A=80 have been investigated at the IGISOL facility. The studied nuclei, 81Y, 81Sr, 81mKr, 85Nb, 85Zr, 86Mo and 86Nb, were produced by a 32S beam from the Jyväskylä isochronous cyclotron on 54Fe and natNi targets. The internal conversion coefficient for a 190.5 keV isomeric transition in 81mKr has been measured and the internal transition rate has been determined. The internal transition rate has been used to estimate a neutrino capture rate on 81Br, which yields a log ft of 5.13±0.09 for the reaction 81Br( ν, e-)81mKr. A new isomer with a half-life of 3.3±0.9 s has been observed in 85Nb. The existence of an earlier reported isomer…
Excited states inPd115populated in theβ−decay ofRh115
Excited states in $^{115}\mathrm{Pd}$, populated following the ${\ensuremath{\beta}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ decay of $^{115}\mathrm{Rh}$ have been studied by means of $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ spectroscopy after the Penning-trap station at the IGISOL facility, University of Jyv\"askyl\"a. The $1$$/$$2$${}^{+}$ spin and parity assignment of the ground state of $^{115}\mathrm{Pd}$, confirmed in this work, may indicate a transition to an oblate shape in Pd isotopes at high neutron number.
The β-decay approach for studying 12C
6 pags., 3 figs. -- 9th International Conference on Clustering Aspects of Nuclear Structure and Dynamics (CLUSTERS'07) 3–7 September 2007, Stratford upon Avon, UK
A new off-line ion source facility at IGISOL
An off-line ion source station has been commissioned at the IGISOL (Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line) facility. It offers the infrastructure needed to produce stable ion beams from three off-line ion sources in parallel with the radioactive ion beams produced from the IGISOL target chamber. This has resulted in improved feasibility for new experiments by offering reference ions for Penning-trap mass measurements, laser spectroscopy and atom trap experiments.
Reactor Decay Heat inPu239: Solving theγDiscrepancy in the 4–3000-s Cooling Period
The {beta} feeding probability of {sup 102,104,105,106,107}Tc, {sup 105}Mo, and {sup 101}Nb nuclei, which are important contributors to the decay heat in nuclear reactors, has been measured using the total absorption technique. We have coupled for the first time a total absorption spectrometer to a Penning trap in order to obtain sources of very high isobaric purity. Our results solve a significant part of a long-standing discrepancy in the {gamma} component of the decay heat for {sup 239}Pu in the 4-3000 s range.
New Beta-delayed Neutron Measurements in the Light-mass Fission Group
A new accurate determination of beta-delayed neutron emission probabilities from nuclei in the low mass region of the light fission group has been performed. The measurements were carried out using the BELEN 4π neutron counter at the IGISOL-JYFL mass separator in combination with a Penning trap. The new results significantly improve the uncertainties of neutron emission probabilities for {sup 91}Br, {sup 86}As, {sup 85}As, and {sup 85}Ge nuclei.
Decay study ofTc114with a Penning trap
The level structure of $^{114}\mathrm{Ru}$ has been investigated via the $\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay of very neutron-rich $^{114}\mathrm{Tc}$ by means of Penning-trap-assisted $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ spectroscopy. The deduced $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay scheme suggests the existence of two $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decaying states in $^{114}\mathrm{Tc}$ with ${I}^{\ensuremath{\pi}}={1}^{+}$ and $I\ensuremath{\geqslant}$ 4, with half-lives of ${t}_{1/2}({1}^{+})=90(20)$ ms and ${t}_{1/2}(I\ensuremath{\geqslant}4)=100(20)$ ms, respectively. The ${Q}_{\ensuremath{\beta}}$ value, which covers a possible mixture of two states, has been determined to be ${Q}_{\ensuremath{\beta}}=11 785(12)$ keV. The level…
High-precision mass measurements and production of neutron-deficient isotopes using heavy-ion beams at IGISOL
An upgraded ion-guide system for the production of neutron-deficient isotopes with heavy-ion beams has been commissioned at the IGISOL facility with an $^{36}\mathrm{Ar}$ beam on a $^{\mathrm{nat}}\mathrm{Ni}$ target. It was used together with the JYFLTRAP double Penning trap to measure the masses of $^{82}\mathrm{Zr}, ^{84}\mathrm{Nb}, ^{86}\mathrm{Mo}, ^{88}\mathrm{Tc}$, and $^{89}\mathrm{Ru}$ ground states and the isomeric state $^{88}\mathrm{Tc}^{m}$. Of these, $^{89}\mathrm{Ru}$ and $^{88}\mathrm{Tc}^{m}$ were measured for the first time. The precision of measurements of $^{82}\mathrm{Zr}, ^{84}\mathrm{Nb}$, and $^{88}\mathrm{Tc}$ was significantly improved. The literature value for $^…
QValues of the SuperallowedβEmittersAlm26,Sc42, andV46and Their Impact onVudand the Unitarity of the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa Matrix
The $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay ${Q}_{\mathrm{EC}}$ values of the superallowed beta emitters $^{26}\mathrm{Al}^{m}$, $^{42}\mathrm{Sc}$, and $^{46}\mathrm{V}$ have been measured with a Penning trap to a relative precision of better than $8\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}9}$. Our result for $^{46}\mathrm{V}$, 7052.72(31) keV, confirms a recent measurement that differed from the previously accepted reaction-based ${Q}_{\mathrm{EC}}$ value. However, our results for $^{26}\mathrm{Al}^{m}$ and $^{42}\mathrm{Sc}$, 4232.83(13) keV and 6426.13(21) keV, are consistent with previous reaction-based values. By eliminating the possibility of a systematic difference between the two t…
Fission studies at IGISOL/JYFLTRAP: Simulations of the ion guide for neutron-induced fission and comparison with experimental data
For the production of exotic nuclei at the IGISOL facility, an ion guide for neutron-induced fission has been developed and tested in experiments. Fission fragments are produced inside the ion guide and collected using a helium buffer gas. Meanwhile, a GEANT4 model has been developed to simulate the transportation and stopping of the charged fission products. In a recent measurement of neutron-induced fission yields, implantation foils were located at different positions in the ion guide. The gamma spectra from these foils and the fission targets are compared to the results from the GEANT4 simulation. In order to allow fission yield measurements in the low yield regions, towards the tails a…
Quenching of the SnSbTe Cycle in the rp-Process
First β -decay scheme of Nb107 : New insight into the low-energy levels of Mo107
Monoisotopic samples of $^{107}\mathrm{Nb}$ nuclei, produced in the proton-induced fission of $^{238}\mathrm{U}$ and separated using the IGISOL mass separator coupled to a Penning trap, were used to perform $\ensuremath{\beta}$- and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-coincidence spectroscopy of $^{107}\mathrm{Mo}$. Gamma transitions and excited levels in $^{107}\mathrm{Mo}$ were observed in $\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay for the first time. Spin and parity $1/{2}^{+}$ for the ground state of $^{107}\mathrm{Mo}$ is proposed, to replace the previous $5/{2}^{+}$ assignment. The experimental $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay half-life of $^{107}\mathrm{Nb}$ was estimated to be $0.27\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.02$ s.
Mobility determination of lead isotopes in glass for retrospective radon measurements
In retrospective radon measurements, the 22-y half life of (210)Pb is used as an advantage. (210)Pb is often considered to be relatively immobile in glass after alpha recoil implanted by (222)Rn progenies. The diffusion of (210)Pb could, however, lead to uncertain wrong retrospective radon exposure estimations if (210)Pb is mobile and can escape from glass, or lost as a result of cleaning-induced surface modification. This diffusion was studied by a radiotracer technique, where (209)Pb was used as a tracer in a glass matrix for which the elemental composition is known. Using the ion guide isotope separator on-line technique, the (209)Pb atoms were implanted into the glass with an energy of …
Influences on the triple alpha process beyond the Hoyle state
7 pags., 3 figs. -- International Symposium on Nuclear Astrophysics - Nuclei in the Cosmos - IX, 25-30 June 2006, CERN
First evidence of multiple β-delayed neutron emission for isotopes with a > 100
The β-delayed neutron emission probability, Pn, of very neutron-rich nuclei allows us to achieve a better understanding of the nuclear structure above the neutron separation energy, Sn. The emission of neutrons can become the dominant decay process in neutron-rich astrophysical phenomena such as the rapid neutron capture process (r-process). There are around 600 accessible isotopes for which β-delayed one-neutron emission (β1n) is energetically allowed, but the branching ratio has only been determined for about one third of them. β1n decays have been experimentally measured up to the mass A ∼ 150, plus a single measurement of 210Tl. Concerning two-neutron emitters (β2n), ∼ 300 isotopes are …
On the decrease in charge radii of multi-quasi particle isomers
Abstract We report changes in mean-square charge radii, δ 〈 r 2 〉 , magnetic moments and quadrupole moments for three multi-quasi particle isomers; 97m2Y, 176mYb and 178m1Hf. All the isomers are observed to display a decrease in 〈 r 2 〉 compared to the lower-lying nuclear state on which the isomer is built. The decreases in 〈 r 2 〉 occur despite the isomers showing increases in quadrupole moment. Possible mechanisms for the effect, which is now seen for six multi-quasi particle isomers, are discussed.
Electron-transporter spectrometer for on-line isotope separator
Abstract ELLJ — a conversion-electron and beta-ray spectrometer for an on-line isotope separator - is described. The instrument is a broad-range, high-transmission device consisting of a two-coil magnetic transporter plus a cooled Si(Li) detector. The spectrometer was designed to perform several kinds of coincidence measurements. A number of representative spectra of fission-product activities separated on-line at the IGISOL facility demonstrate the performance of the spectrometer.
Production of neutron-rich nuclei in fission induced by neutrons generated by the p + 13C reaction at 55 MeV
Cross-sections for the production of neutron-rich nuclei obtained by neutron-induced fission of natural uranium have been measured. The neutrons were generated by bombarding a 13C target with 55 MeV protons. The results, position of the maximum in the (Z, A)-plane, width and magnitude, are very comparable with those where the neutrons are generated by bombardment of natural 12C graphite with 50 MeV deuterons. Depending on the geometry of the converter/target assembly the isotope yields, however, are a factor of 2-3 lower due to less efficient production of neutrons per primary projectile, especially at small forward angles.
New interpretation of shape coexistence in99Zr
Levels in ${}^{99}\mathrm{Zr}$ populated by $\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay of on-line mass separated ${}^{99}$Y have been studied by $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray spectroscopic methods, including $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-$\ensuremath{\gamma}$ coincidences recorded with an array of ten Ge detectors and level-lifetime measurements. The formerly reported strongly collective character of the 53-keV transition turns out to be questionable. This implies a revision of the experimental evidence for shape coexistence in ${}^{99}\mathrm{Zr}.$ Transition rates and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray branching ratios make a new level at 679 keV with ${t}_{1/2}=9$ ns another candidate for a deformed state.
First observation of the beta decay of117Pd and the discovery of a new isotope119Pd
In this paper we wish to report the first direct observations of the beta decays of117Pd and of a new isotope119Pd. The measuredβ-half-life is 4.3±0.3 s for117Pd. For119Pd, the existence of two beta-decaying states with the same half-life but of opposite parity cannot be excluded. The measured half-life for119Pd is 0.92±0.13 s. The observed beta half-lifes are in good agreement with the QRPA predictions. The observed level structure of117Ag and119Ag are discussed in the frame of the level systematics of the known odd Ag isotopes closer to stability.
Total Absorption Spectroscopy of Fission Fragments Relevant for Reactor Antineutrino Spectra Determination
8 pags., 3 figs., 1 tab. ; Presented at the XXXIV Mazurian Lakes Conference on Physics, Piaski, Poland, September 6–13, 2015.
Precision Mass Measurements beyondSn132: Anomalous Behavior of Odd-Even Staggering of Binding Energies
Atomic masses of the neutron-rich isotopes $^{121--128}\mathrm{Cd}$, $^{129,131}\mathrm{In}$, $^{130--135}\mathrm{Sn}$, $^{131--136}\mathrm{Sb}$, and $^{132--140}\mathrm{Te}$ have been measured with high precision (10 ppb) using the Penning-trap mass spectrometer JYFLTRAP. Among these, the masses of four $r$-process nuclei $^{135}\mathrm{Sn}$, $^{136}\mathrm{Sb}$, and $^{139,140}\mathrm{Te}$ were measured for the first time. An empirical neutron pairing gap expressed as the odd-even staggering of isotopic masses shows a strong quenching across $N=82$ for Sn, with a $Z$ dependence that is unexplainable by the current theoretical models.
Total absorption γ -ray spectroscopy of the β -delayed neutron emitters Br87 , Br88 , and Rb94
We investigate the decay of 87,88Br and 94Rb using total absorption γ -ray spectroscopy. These important fission products are β-delayed neutron emitters. Our data show considerable βγ intensity, so far unobserved in high-resolution γ -ray spectroscopy, from states at high excitation energy. We also find significant differences with the β intensity that can be deduced from existing measurements of the β spectrum. We evaluate the impact of the present data on reactor decay heat using summation calculations. Although the effect is relatively small it helps to reduce the discrepancy between calculations and integral measurements of the photon component for 235U fission at cooling times in the r…
The decay of 133mXe.
The decay of (133m)Xe has been re-measured using an electron-transporter spectrometer and a planar HPGe detector. The sample of (133m)Xe was produced by means of proton-induced fission using an ion-guide based on-line mass separator. The deduced K and L+M+... shell conversion coefficients, alpha(Kappa)=6.5(9) and alpha(L+M+...)=2.9(4), agree within the uncertainty limits with the theoretical values and remove the inconsistencies between the previous experimental studies of (133m)Xe.
High-resolution studies of beta-delayed proton emitters at IGISOL facility
Beta-decays of23Al and41Ti have been studied by applying ion guide techniques, gamma detection and a gas-Si telescope for charged-particle detection. The experimental beta-decay strength of41Ti was found to be quenched by a factor ofq2 = 0.64 compared to our shell model calculations below 8 MeV excitation energy in41Sc. This result is in line with the generally accepted value ofq = 0.77. The isobaric analogue state of the41Ti ground state was measured to contain 10(8)% isospin impurity. This relatively high value could be well reproduced by the shell model calculation in thesdfp space. Gamma-decay of theT = 3/2 isobaric analogue state in23Mg was observed together with its decay by proton em…
New lifetime measurements in 109 Pd and the onset of deformation at N = 60
Several new subnanosecond lifetimes were measured in 109Pd using the fast-timing βγγ (t) method. Fission fragments of the A = 109 mass chain were produced by bombarding natural uranium with 30 MeV protons at the Jyvaskyl ¨ a Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) facility. Lifetimes were obtained for excited states ¨ in 109Pd populated following β decay of 109Rh. The new lifetimes provide some insight into the evolution of nuclear structure in this mass region. In particular, the distinct structure of the two low-lying 7/2+ states occurring systematically across the Pd isotopic chain is supported by the new lifetime measurements. The available nuclear data indicate a sudden increase i…
Precise branching ratios to unbound 12C states from 12N and 12B β-decays
6 pages, 2 tables, 4 figures.--PACS nrs.: 21.45.-v; 23.40.-s; 27.20.+n; 21.60.De.--Printed version published Aug 3, 2009
r Process (n, γ) Rate Constraints from the γ Emission of Neutron Unbound States in β decay
Total absorption gamma-ray spectroscopy is used to measure accurately the intensity of γγ emission from neutron-unbound states populated in the ββ-decay of delayed-neutron emitters. From the comparison of this intensity with the intensity of neutron emission a constraint on the (n, γγ) cross section for highly unstable neutron-rich nuclei can be deduced. A surprisingly large γγ branching was observed for a number of isotopes which might indicate the need to increase by a large factor the Hauser-Feshbach (n, γγ) cross-section estimates that impact on r process abundance calculations. peerReviewed
Total Absorption Spectroscopy Study ofRb92Decay: A Major Contributor to Reactor Antineutrino Spectrum Shape
The antineutrino spectra measured in recent experiments at reactors are inconsistent with calculations based on the conversion of integral beta spectra recorded at the ILL reactor. (92)Rb makes the dominant contribution to the reactor antineutrino spectrum in the 5-8 MeV range but its decay properties are in question. We have studied (92)Rb decay with total absorption spectroscopy. Previously unobserved beta feeding was seen in the 4.5-5.5 region and the GS to GS feeding was found to be 87.5(25)%. The impact on the reactor antineutrino spectra calculated with the summation method is shown and discussed.
Independent yields of neutron-rich nuclei in charged-particle induced fission
Abstract Yields of fission products have been studied at the recently upgraded IGISOL facility in Jyvaskyla using 50 MeV H2+ beam (Ep = 25 MeV) and thin natTh and natU targets. The independent yields of fission products in the mass regions A = 99−112 (elements Y, Nb and Tc) and A = 127−134 (elements Sn, Sb and Te) have been obtained. Comparisons of the experimental isotopic distributions with theoretical ones are presented. Enhancement of the production rate of the doubly magic 132Sn is observed in the experimental yield curve.
Recent mass measurements for the r process at JYFLTRAP
Status of HIGISOL a new version equipped with SPIG and electric field guidance
A new HIGISOL chamber devoted to the study of short-lived products from heavy-ion-induced fusion-evaporation reactions is proposed. It enables, via the extraction of ions by means of a SPIG (SextuPole rf Ion Guide), to improve the mass resolving power by a factor 2.5 compared to the previous system using a skimmer-ring assembly. The gas cell was also equiped with an electric field for faster transportation of recoiling ions to the nozzle where they are ejected with the gas jet. The first results obtained both with a radioactive α-source and cyclotron beam will be reported.
Isotopic product distributions in the near symmetric mass region in proton induced fission ofU238
We have studied fission product yields using 19.8 MeV proton induced fission of a thin $^{238}\mathrm{U}$ target and the on-line mass separator IGISOL. The nonselectivity of the separation method used with respect to Z has allowed accurate determination of the yields of symmetric fission for the first time. The cumulative yields for the elements from Z=40 (Zr) up to Z=47 (Ag) have been determined from the beta- and gamma-radioactivity measurements. The independent fission product yield distributions for elements Tc, Ru, and Rh are obtained from the experimental data. An improved theoretical model for calculating mass and independent yields is described and applied. It is found that the char…
Excited levels in the multishaped Pd117 nucleus studied via β decay of Rh117
Monoisotopic samples of exotic, neutron-rich $^{117}\mathrm{Rh}$ nuclei, produced in the proton-induced fission of $^{238}\mathrm{U}$ and separated using the IGISOL mass separator coupled to the JYFLTRAP Penning trap, were used to perform $\ensuremath{\beta}$ and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ coincidence spectroscopy of $^{117}\mathrm{Pd}$. The spin parity of the ground state of $^{117}\mathrm{Pd}$ was determined to be $1/{2}^{+}$ and the 19.1 ms isomer at 203.2 keV was assigned a spin-parity $7/{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$. The $^{117}\mathrm{Rh}$ ${\ensuremath{\beta}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$-decay scheme was considerably extended, and various sequences of the levels were interpreted as resulting from the prol…
Summation Calculations for Reactor Antineutrino Spectra, Decay Heat and Delayed Neutron Fractions Involving New TAGS Data and Evaluated Databases
9 pags., 3 figs. -- Open Access funded by Creative Commons Atribution Licence 4.0
Decays of theY97isomers to the single neutron nucleusZr97
The decays of the 9/2(+) and of the three-quasiparticle high spin isomer in Y-97 have been investigated following on-line mass separation with the ion-guide technique. Spins and parities for several of the lowest-lying levels in the daughter nucleus Zr-97 are revised and configurations are proposed. In particular, the 2264 keV level is identified as the h(11/2) single-neutron level. The population of a cascade on top of the h(11/2) level provides evidence for Gamow-Teller beta decay of the high-spin Y-97 isomer. Levels and transition rates are qualitatively well reproduced by regarding Zr-97 as a single-neutron nucleus with respect to the doubly closed Zr-96 core.
A sextupole ion beam guide to improve the efficiency and beam quality at IGISOL
The laser ion source project at the IGISOL facility, Jyvaskyla, has motivated the development and construction of an rf sextupole ion beam guide (SPIG) to replace the original skimmer electrode. The SPIG has been tested both off-line and on-line in proton-induced fission, light-ion and heavy-ion induced fusion-evaporation reactions and, in each case, has been directly compared to the skimmer system. For both fission and light-ion induced fusion, the SPIG has improved the mass-separated ion yields by a factor of typically 4 to 8. Correspondingly, the transmission efficiency of both systems has been studied in simulations with and without space charge effects. The transport capacity of the SP…
Improvements on Decay Heat Summation Calculations by Means of Total Absorption Gamma-ray Spectroscopy Measurements
The decay heat of fission products plays an important role in predictions of the heat released by nuclear fuel in reactors. In this contribution we present results of the analysis of the measurement of the beta decay of some refractory isotopes that were considered possible important contributors to the decay heat in reactors. The measurements presented here were performed at the IGISOL facility of the University of Jyvaeskylae, Finland. In our measurements we have combined for the first time a Penning trap (JYFLTRAP), which was used as a high resolution isobaric separator, with a total absorption spectrometer. The results of the measurements as well as their consequences for decay heat sum…
Gamow-Teller decay of 118Pd and of the new isotope 120Pd
Abstract With the use of the proton-induced fission of 238 U and the ion guide-fed on-line mass separation, even- A isotopes of palladium with high neutron excess were studied by means of γ-ray and conversion-electron spectroscopy. The decay of 118 Pd was reinvestigated in detail, and evidence for the new isotope 120 Pd, with a half-life T 1 2 = 0.5 ± 0.1 s , was found. As established for 118 Pd and tentatively shown for 120 Pd, the β-decay of these two isotopes proceeds mainly through 0 + → 1 + Gamow-Teller transitions with log ft values between 4.2 and 4.7. The strength of individual transitions has been compared with the predictions of the shell-correction model with a deformed Woods-Sax…
β-decay ofO13
The beta decay of O-13 has been studied at the IGISOL facility of the Jyvaskyla accelerator centre (Finland). By developing a low-energy isotope-separated beam of O-13 and using a modern segmented charged-particle detector array an improved measurement of the delayed proton spectrum was possible. Protons with energy up to more than 12 MeV are measured and the corresponding log(ft) values extracted. A revised decay scheme is constructed. The connection to molecular states and the shell model is discussed.
MONSTER: a TOF Spectrometer for beta-delayed Neutron Spectroscopy
β-delayed neutron (DN) data, including emission probabilities, Pn, and energy spectrum, play an important role in our understanding of nuclear structure, nuclear astrophysics and nuclear technologies. A MOdular Neutron time-of-flight SpectromeTER (MONSTER) is being built for the measurement of the neutron energy spectra and branching ratios. The TOF spectrometer will consist of one hundred liquid scintillator cells covering a significant solid angle. The MONSTER design has been optimized by using Monte Carlo (MC) techniques. The response function of the MONSTER cell has been characterized with mono-energetic neutron beams and compared to dedicated MC simulations.
Design of a neutron converter for fission studies at the IGISOL facility
The upgraded IGISOL facility with JYFLTRAP, at the accelerator laboratory of the University of Jyvaskyla, has been supplied with a new cyclotron which will provide proton or deuteron beams of the order of 100 μA with up to 30 MeV energy. This makes it an ideal place for measurements of neutron-induced fission fragments from various actinides, in view of proposed future nuclear fuel cycles. In the present paper, some considerations for the design of a neutron converter, based on simulations with the Monte Carlo codes MCNPX and FLUKA, are described.
Production of Sn and Sb isotopes in high-energy neutron induced fission of natU
The first systematic measurement of neutron-induced fission yields has been performed at the upgraded IGISOL-4 facility at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland. The fission products from high-energy neutron-induced fission of nat U were stopped in a gas cell filled with helium buffer gas, and were online separated with a dipole magnet. The isobars, with masses in the range A = 128-133 , were transported to a tape-implantation station and identified using γ -spectroscopy. We report here the relative cumulative isotopic yields of tin (Z = 50) and the relative independent isotopic yields of antimony (Z = 51). Isomeric yield ratios were also obtained for five nuclides. The yields of tin show a …
New levels in 118Pd observed in the beta-decay of very neutron-rich 118Rh isotope
We investigate the β decay of very neutron-rich 118Rh isotope using on-line mass-separated sources which are produced by applying 25 MeV proton induced symmetric fission of natural uranium at the IGISOL facility. The β–γ and γ–γ coincidence spectroscopy is employed to establish the level scheme of daughter nucleus 118Pd. Five low-lying new levels are identified for the first time with tentative spin and parity assignments based on the even-mass Pd systematics.
Masses of neutron-rich Ni and Cu isotopes and the shell closure at Z = 28 , N = 40
The Penning trap mass spectrometer JYFLTRAP, coupled to the Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) facility at Jyvaskyla, was employed to measure the atomic masses of neutron-rich 70-73Ni and 73, 75Cu isotopes with a typical accuracy less than 5keV. The mass of 73Ni was measured for the first time. Comparisons with the previous data are discussed. Two-neutron separation energies show a weak subshell closure at 68 28Ni40 . A well established proton shell gap is observed at Z = 28 .
High-resolution study of the beta decay of 41Ti
Abstract An improved high-resolution study of the beta decay of 41 Ti, produced in the 40 Ca( 3 He, 2n) reaction at 40 MeV, has been performed at the Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) facility. The beta-delayed radiation was detected by a low-energy charged-particle detector and a large Ge detector for gamma rays. The experimental beta-decay strength and its distribution, extracted from delayed-proton data, are compared with results of shell-model calculations in the sdfp space. The lowest J π = 3 2 + , T = 3 2 state in 41 Sc, the isobaric analogue state of the 41 Ti ground state, is estimated to contain 10% isospin impurity.
A ROOT-based analysis tool for measurements of neutron-induced fission products at the IGISOL facility
For the sustainable development of nuclear energy, the handling of used nuclear fuel is a key issue. Innovative fuel cycles are being developed for the transmutation of minor actinides and long-lived fission products. In view of these developments, accurate knowledge of the fuel inventory is necessary. The IGISOL facility with JYFLTRAP, at the accelerator laboratory of the University of Jyvaskyla, will be used to measure independent fission yield distributions from neutron-induced fission on different actinides. In this paper, an analysis tool is developed, using the CERN-based ROOT Data Analysis Framework, with the objective of performing full data analysis within the same code. The analys…
Half-life measurements for neutron-rich Tc, Ru, Rh, and Pd isotopes. Identification of the new isotopesTc111,Ru113, andRh113
The decays of three new neutron-rich nuclides $^{111}\mathrm{Tc}$, $^{113}\mathrm{Ru}$, and $^{113}\mathrm{Rh}$ have been observed at an on-line isotope separator facility. In addition, the beta decays of several other n-rich isotopes with Ag100 have been studied for the first time. The new half-lives reported in this work include: $^{111}\mathrm{Tc}$ [${T}_{1/2}$=0.30(3) s], $^{111}\mathrm{Ru}$ [2.12(7) s], $^{112}\mathrm{Ru}$ [1.75(7) s], $^{113}\mathrm{Ru}$ [0.80(10) s], $^{113}\mathrm{Rh}$ [2.72(22) s], and $^{118}\mathrm{Pd}$ [2.24(17) s]. In general, these results support the microscopic theoretical half-life predictions below Z=50.
Neutron configurations inPd113
Excited states in $^{113}\mathrm{Pd}$, populated in ${\ensuremath{\beta}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ decay of $^{113}\mathrm{Rh}$ and in spontaneous fission of $^{248}\mathrm{Cm}$ and $^{252}\mathrm{Cf}$, have been studied by means of $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ spectroscopy at the IGISOL facility of Jyv\"askyl\"a University and using large arrays of Ge detectors (Eurogam2 and Gammasphere, respectively). The position of the ${11/2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ yrast excitation in $^{113}\mathrm{Pd}$, proposed recently at 166.1 keV by other authors, has been corrected to 98.9 keV. The decay of this level has been discussed to explain the observed transition intensities. The ${7/2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ member of the yras…
Advanced model for the prediction of the neutron-rich fission product yields
The consistent models for the description of the independent fission product formation cross sections in the spontaneous fission and in the neutron and proton induced fission at the energies up to 100 MeV is developed. This model is a combination of new version of the two-component exciton model and a time-dependent statistical model for fusion-fission process with inclusion of dynamical effects for accurate calculations of nucleon composition and excitation energy of the fissioning nucleus at the scission point. For each member of the compound nucleus ensemble at the scission point, the primary fission fragment characteristics: kinetic and excitation energies and their yields are calculate…
Improved ion guide for heavy-ion fusion-evaporation reactions
The ion guide for heavy-ion-induced reactions developed originally for the SARA facility in Grenoble has been implemented at the Jyvaskyla IGISOL facility. For the Cd-116(Ar-40, 6n)Dy-150 reaction an efficiency of 0.5% relative to the number of reaction products entering the stopping chamber was obtained. This is 3.5 times higher than previously obtained at SARA and corresponds to a yield of about 100 ions/(p mu C mb). Mass-separated yields for the Ar-36 + Mo-92 and Ar-36 + Mo-94 reactions were measured. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
First observation of nonyrast levels inZr103and level systematics ofN= 63 Sr, Zr, and Mo isotones
The {beta} decay of the very-neutron-rich nucleus {sup 103}Y has been studied at the isotope separator IGISOL, allowing for the first time the observation of nonyrast levels in its daughter {sub 40}{sup 103}Zr{sub 63}. The level structure is similar to that of its isotones {sup 101}Sr and {sup 105}Mo, suggesting a large ground-state deformation of {beta}{approx_equal} 0.4. Level systematics allows for new level assignments in both {sup 103}Zr and {sup 105}Mo. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}
Characterization and performance of the DTAS detector
11 pags., 16 figs., 3 tabs.
New Neutron-Rich Nuclei and Isomers Produced in Symmetric Fisson
The novel method for rapid on-line mass separation, the IGISOL, is described. The method has been shown applicable to mass separation of short-lived proton-induced fission products without any chemical dependence on radionuclide. Recent results on isomeric states with half-lives of the order of milliseconds produced directly in proton-induced fission of 238U and separated with the IGISOL are presented. The future plans for connection of the new K-130 cyclotron of the University of Jyvaskyla with the IGISOL are reviewed.
Isomeric state of 80Y and its role in the rp-process
The HIGISOL facility has been used to investigate carefully the isomeric transition 228.5 keV in 80Y. We have measured the electron internal conversion coefficient for this transition αK = 0.50 ± 0.07 which gives the value for half-life of “bare” isomeric state T 1/2 = 6.8 ± 0.5 s. The isomeric state should play an important role in the rp-process calculations.
β-decay of 113Rh and the observation of 113mPd : Isomer systematics in odd-A palladium isotopes
Abstract Decay of 113Rh to the levels of 113Pd was studied at the IGISOL-facility by means of β-, γ- and conversion-electron spectroscopy. The level scheme of 113Pd was constructed using 33 gamma transitions on the basis of observed γγ-coincidence relations and half-life analysis. A β-decay half-life of (2.80±0.12) s was measured for 113Rh. A new 9 − 2 isomeric state with (0.3 ± 0.1) s half-life and excitation energy 81.3 keV was discovered in 113Pd. This state and the other recently observed low-lying 9 − 2 or 11 − 2 isomeric states in 115,117Pd isotopes are directly populated in proton-induced fission. The decay of these isomers is unusually strongly hindered compared with Weisskopf estim…
Branching ratios in theβdecays ofN12andB12
Absolute branching ratios to unbound states in C-12 populated in the beta decays of N-12 and B-12 are reported. Clean sources of N-12 and B-12 were obtained using the isotope separation on-line (ISOL) method. The relative branching ratios to the different populated states were extracted using single-alpha as well as complete kinematics triple-alpha spectra. These two largely independent methods give consistent results. Absolute normalization is achieved via the precisely known absolute branching ratio to the bound 4.44 MeV state in C-12. The extracted branching ratios to the unbound states are a factor of three more precise than previous measurements. Branching ratios in the decay of Na-20 …
Nuclear charge radii and electromagnetic moments of radioactive scandium isotopes and isomers
International audience; Collinear laser spectroscopy experiments with the Sc + transition 3d4s 3 D 2 → 3d4p 3 F 3 at λ = 363.1 nm were performed on the 42−46 Sc isotopic chain using an ion guide isotope separator with a cooler-buncher. Nuclear magnetic dipole and electric quadrupole moments as well as isotope shifts were determined from the hyperfine structure for five ground states and two isomers. Extensive multi-configurational Dirac-Fock calculations were performed in order to evaluate the specific mass-shift, M SMS, and field-shift, F, parameters which allowed evaluation of the charge radii trend of the Sc isotopic sequence. The charge radii obtained show systematics more like the Ti r…
First measurement of radioisotopes by collinear laser spectroscopy at an ion-guide separator
The first successful application of an ion-guide separator (IGISOL) for collinear laser spectroscopy of radioisotopes has achieved an efficiency comparable with the best obtained with catcher-ionizer facilities. The ion beam energy spread was determined to be less than 6 eV, allowing laser fluorescence resonance signals for the Ba-140,Ba-142,Ba-144 radioisotopes to be detected with high resolution and sensitivity. Applications of this technique to measuring nuclear properties of refractory elements and short lived isomers promises to be particularly advantageous.
Breakup channels forC12triple-αcontinuum states
The triple-alpha-particle breakup of states in the triple-alpha continuum of C-12 has been investigated by way of coincident detection of all three alpha particles of the breakup. The states have been fed in the beta decay of N-12 and B-12, and the alpha particles measured using a setup that covers all of the triple-alpha phase space. Contributions from the breakup through the Be-8(0(+)) ground state as well as other channels-interpreted as breakup through excited energies in Be-8-have been identified. Spins and parities of C-12 triple-alpha continuum states are deduced from the measured phase-space distributions for breakup through Be-8 above the ground state by comparison to a fully symme…
Enhancedγ-Ray Emission from Neutron Unbound States Populated inβDecay
Total absorption spectroscopy is used to investigate the β-decay intensity to states above the neutron separation energy followed by γ-ray emission in (87,88)Br and (94)Rb. Accurate results are obtained thanks to a careful control of systematic errors. An unexpectedly large γ intensity is observed in all three cases extending well beyond the excitation energy region where neutron penetration is hindered by low neutron energy. The γ branching as a function of excitation energy is compared to Hauser-Feshbach model calculations. For (87)Br and (88)Br the γ branching reaches 57% and 20%, respectively, and could be explained as a nuclear structure effect. Some of the states populated in the daug…
Gamow-Teller decay of118Pd and of neighbouring even isotopes of palladium
Neutron-rich isotopes of palladium were produced via the fission of238U by 20 MeV protons. These isotopes were selected using the ion guide-fed on-line mass-separator facility IGISOL at Jyvaskyla. Their decays were studied byβ-ray,γ-ray and conversion-electron spectroscopy. For114Pd and116Pd, the decay schemes established previously were confirmed; additionally multipolarities were determined for a few transitions. In the case of118Pd, only an approximate half-life was known from a previous radiochemical experiment. In the present study, 15 gamma transitions were observed, most of which were placed in a decay scheme. The half-life and the decay energy were found to beT1/2=1.9±0.1 s andQβ=4.…
A neutron source for IGISOL-JYFLTRAP : Design and characterisation
A white neutron source based on the Be(p, nx) reaction for fission studies at the IGISOL-JYFLTRAP facility has been designed and tested. 30MeV protons impinge on a 5mm thick water-cooled beryllium disc. The source was designed to produce at least 1012 fast neutrons/s on a secondary fission target, in order to reach competitive production rates of fission products far from the valley of stability. The Monte Carlo codes MCNPX and FLUKA were used in the design phase to simulate the neutron energy spectra. Two experiments to characterise the neutron field were performed: the first was carried out at The Svedberg Laboratory in Uppsala (SE), using an Extended-Range Bonner Sphere Spectrometer and …
Phase-Imaging Ion-Cyclotron-Resonance technique at the JYFLTRAP double Penning trap mass spectrometer
The Phase-Imaging Ion-Cyclotron-Resonance (PI-ICR) technique has been commissioned at the JYFLTRAP double Penning trap mass spectrometer. This technique is based on projecting the ion motion in the Penning trap onto a position-sensitive multichannel-plate ion detector. Mass measurements of stable 85 Rb $ ^{+}$ and 87 Rb $ ^{+}$ ions with well-known mass values show that relative uncertainties $ \Delta m/m \leq 7\cdot 10^{-10}$ are possible to reach with the PI-ICR technique at JYFLTRAP. The significant improvement both in resolving power and in precision compared to the conventional Time-of-Flight Ion Cyclotron Resonance technique will enable measurements of close-lying isomeric states and …
QECvalues of the superallowedβemittersC10,Ar34,Ca38, andV46
The ${Q}_{\mathrm{EC}}$ values of the superallowed ${\ensuremath{\beta}}^{+}$ emitters $^{10}\mathrm{C}$, $^{34}\mathrm{Ar}$, $^{38}\mathrm{Ca}$, and $^{46}\mathrm{V}$ have been measured with the JYFLTRAP Penning-trap mass spectrometer to be 3648.12(8), 6061.83(8), 6612.12(7), and 7052.44(10) keV, respectively. All four values are substantially improved in precision over previous results. Of the well-known superallowed emitters, only $^{14}\mathrm{O}$ has yet to have had its ${Q}_{\mathrm{EC}}$ value measured with a Penning trap.
Spin-flip? ? decay of even-even deformed nuclei110Ru and112Ru
Neutron-rich nuclides110Ru and112Ru produced in symmetric fission of238U by 20 MeV protons have been studied at the IGISOL facility by means ofβ-ray,γ-ray and conversion electron spectroscopy. A total of 12 and 6γ-transitions were observed in the decays of110Ru and112Ru, respectively. Multipolarities were determined for a few transitions. The beta decay half-life was determined to be 11.6±0.6 s for110Ru and 1.75±0.07 s for112Ru. As a side product, a new value of 2.1±0.3 s for theβ half-life of the112Rh 1+ state was obtained. The decay energy measured with the plastic scintillator was 2.81 ±0.05 MeV for110Ru and 4.52 ±0.08 MeV for112Ru. The beta decay schemes of110Ru and112Ru isotopes indica…
First experiment with the NUSTAR/FAIR Decay Total Absorption γ-Ray Spectrometer (DTAS) at the IGISOL IV facility
V. Guadilla et al. ; 4 págs.; 4 figs.; 1 tab.
ANDES Measurements for Advanced Reactor Systems
Abstract A significant number of new measurements was undertaken by the ANDES “Measurements for advanced reactor systems” initiative. These new measurements include neutron inelastic scattering from 23 Na, Mo, Zr, and 238 U, neutron capture cross sections of 238 U, 241 Am, neutron induced fission cross sections of 240 Pu, 242 Pu, 241 Am, 243 Am and 245 Cm, and measurements that explore the limits of the surrogate technique. The latter study the feasibility of inferring neutron capture cross sections for Cm isotopes, the neutron-induced fission cross section of 238 Pu and fission yields and fission probabilities through full Z and A identification in inverse kinematics for isotopes of Pu, Am…
Mass measurements of neutron-deficient nuclides close to A=80 with a Penning trap
The masses of 80,81,82,83Y, 83,84,85,86,88Zr and 85,86,87,88Nb have been measured with a typical precision of 7 keV by using the Penning trap setup at IGISOL. The mass of 84Zr has been measured for the first time. These precise mass measurements have improved Sp and QEC values for astrophysically important nuclides. peerReviewed
JYFLTRAP: a Penning trap for precision mass spectroscopy and isobaric purification
In this article a comprehensive description and performance of the double Penning-trap setup JYFLTRAP will be detailed. The setup is designed for atomic mass measurements of both radioactive and stable ions and additionally serves as a very high-resolution mass separator. The setup is coupled to the IGISOL facility at the accelerator laboratory of the University of Jyväskylä. The trap has been online since 2003 and it was shut down in the summer of 2010 for relocation to the upgraded IGISOL facility. Numerous atomic mass and decay energy measurements have been performed using the time-of-flight ion-cyclotron resonance technique. The trap has also been used in several decay spectroscopy expe…
Accurate Fission Data for Nuclear Safety
The Accurate fission data for nuclear safety (AlFONS) project aims at high precision measurements of fission yields, using the renewed IGISOL mass separator facility in combination with a new high current light ion cyclotron at the University of Jyvaskyla. The 30 MeV proton beam will be used to create fast and thermal neutron spectra for the study of neutron induced fission yields. Thanks to a series of mass separating elements, culminating with the JYFLTRAP Penning trap, it is possible to achieve a mass resolving power in the order of a few hundred thousands. In this paper we present the experimental setup and the design of a neutron converter target for IGISOL. The goal is to have a flexi…
Beta decay of 108Mo and of neighbouring even Mo-isotopes
Abstract A combination of the proton-induced fission of 238 U and the on-line mass separation based on the ion-guide technique has been applied in the study of neutron-rich Mo-isotopes. The decays of 106,108 Mo have been studied by using gamma-, beta-, X-ray and conversion-electron spectroscopy. The decay scheme of 106 Mo has been revised and a beta-decay half-life of 8.73(12) s has been measured for this nucleus. A beta-decay half-life of 1.09(2) s and a decay energy of 5120(40) keV have been measured for 108 Mo. The decay scheme of 108 Mo has been constructed and altogether 29 new transitions have been placed in the decay scheme. The beta-decay strengths of 102,104,106,108 Mo have been de…
Characterization of a cylindrical plastic {\beta}-detector with Monte Carlo simulations of optical photons
V. Guadilla et al. -- 5 pags., 8 figs., tab.
Fission yield measurements at IGISOL
The fission product yields are an important characteristic of the fission process. In fundamental physics, knowledge of the yield distributions is needed to better understand the fission process. For nuclear energy applications good knowledge of neutroninduced fission-product yields is important for the safe and efficient operation of nuclear power plants. With the Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line (IGISOL) technique, products of nuclear reactions are stopped in a buffer gas and then extracted and separated by mass. Thanks to the high resolving power of the JYFLTRAP Penning trap, at University of Jyväskylä, fission products can be isobarically separated, making it possible to measure rela…
Superasymmetric fission at intermediate energy and production of neutron-rich nuclei with A < 80
Abstract The yields of neutron-rich Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga and Ge-isotopes were measured in 25 MeV proton induced fission of 238 U using the ion guide-based isotope separator technique. The results indicate enhancement for superasymmetric mass division at intermediate excitation energy of the fissioning nucleus and show the potential of this reaction for the production of neutron-rich exotic nuclei around Z = 28.
Trap-assisted separation of nuclear states for gamma-ray spectroscopy: the example of100Nb
Low-lying levels in 100Mo are known to be populated by beta decay from both the ground and isomeric states in 100Nb. The small energy difference (~3 ppm) between the two parent states and the similarity of their half-lives make it difficult to distinguish experimentally between the two decay paths. A new technique for separating different states of nuclei has recently been developed in a series of experiments at the IGISOL facility, using the JYFLTRAP installation, at the University of Jyvaskyla where mass resolution ~2 ppm was achieved in mass measurements and in the production of 133mXe. This paper reports on the extension of this technique to allow the separate study of the gamma-ray dec…
Isomeric fission yield ratios for odd-mass Cd and In isotopes using the Phase-Imaging Ion-Cyclotron-Resonance technique
Isomeric yield ratios for the odd-$A$ isotopes of $^{119-127}$Cd and $^{119-127}$In from 25-MeV proton-induced fission on natural uranium have been measured at the JYFLTRAP double Penning trap, by employing the Phase-Imaging Ion-Cyclotron-Resonance technique. With the significantly improved mass resolution of this novel method isomeric states separated by 140 keV from the ground state, and with half-lives of the order of 500 ms, could be resolved. This opens the door for obtaining new information on low-lying isomers, of importance for nuclear structure, fission and astrophysics. In the present work the experimental isomeric yield ratios are used for the estimation of the root-mean-square a…
Ultra-high resolution mass separator—Application to detection of nuclear weapons tests
Abstract A Penning trap-based purification process having a resolution of about 1 ppm is reported. In this context, we present for the first time a production method for the most complicated and crucially important nuclear weapons test signature, 133mXe. These pure xenon samples are required by the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization to standardize and calibrate the worldwide network of xenon detectors.
Lifetime measurements in mirror nuclei31S and31P: A test for isospin mixing
Using the 20Ne + 12C fusion-evaporation reaction at E20Ne = 33 MeV and the multidetector array GASP in conjuction with the EUCLIDES charged particle detector, angular correlations of coincident pairs of γ transitions and lifetimes in mirror nuclei 31S and 31P have been measured at the Piave-Alpi accelerator of the Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro. A comparison of the determined B(E1) strengths of the analog mirror 7/2− → 5/2+ transitions indicates the presence of a violation of isospin symmetry.
Large Impact of the Decay of Niobium Isomers on the Reactor ν¯e Summation Calculations
Even mass neutron-rich niobium isotopes are among the principal contributors to the reactor antineutrino energy spectrum. They are also among the most challenging to measure due to the refractory nature of niobium, and because they exhibit isomeric states lying very close in energy. The beta-intensity distributions of Nb-100gs,Nb-100m and Nb-102gs,Nb-02m beta decays have been determined using the total absorption.-ray spectroscopy technique. The measurements were performed at the upgraded Ion Guide Isotope Separator On-Line facility at the University of Jyvaskyla. Here, the double Penning trap system JYFLTRAP was employed to disentangle the beta decay of the isomeric states. The new data ob…
Measurement of the 2+→0+ ground-state transition in the β decay of F20
We report the first detection of the second-forbidden, nonunique, 2+→0+, ground-state transition in the β decay of F20. A low-energy, mass-separated F+20 beam produced at the IGISOL facility in Jyvaskyla, Finland, was implanted in a thin carbon foil and the β spectrum measured using a magnetic transporter and a plastic-scintillator detector. The β-decay branching ratio inferred from the measurement is bβ=[0.41±0.08(stat)±0.07(sys)]×10-5 corresponding to logft=10.89(11), making this one of the strongest second-forbidden, nonunique β transitions ever measured. The experimental result is supported by shell-model calculations and has significant implications for the final evolution of stars tha…
Total absorption study of theβdecay of102,104,105Tc
The $\ensuremath{\beta}$-feeding probabilities for three important contributors to the decay heat in nuclear reactors, namely ${}^{102,104,105}$Tc, have been measured using the total absorption spectroscopy technique. For the measurements, sources of very high isobaric purity have been obtained using a Penning trap (JYFLTRAP). A detailed description of the data analysis is given and the results are compared with high-resolution measurements and theoretical calculations.
A thirty second isomer in Hf
An isomer has been detected in Hf-171 with a half-life of T-1/2 = 29.5(9) s. The state was populated in the Yb-170(alpha,3n)Hf-171m reaction at a beam energy of E-alpha = 50 MeV in an on-line ion guide isotope separator. The isomeric Hf-17lm(+) beam was extracted from the ion guide, mass-analysed and implanted in the surface of a microchannel-plate. The half-life of the collected activity was measured from the decay of the microchannel-plate count rate. We associate the isomer with the first excited slate in Hf-171 with spin 1/2(-) at an excitation energy of 22(2) keV.
Isomeric state of $^{80}$Y and its role in the astrophysical rp-process
5 pages, 7 figures.-- PACS nrs: 21.10.Tg; 23.20.Nx; 27.50.+e.
TAGS measurements of $^{100}$Nb ground and isomeric states and $^{140}$Cs for neutrino physics with the new DTAS detector
V. Guadilla et al. -- 4 pags., 6 figs. -- Open Access funded by Creative Commons Atribution Licence 4.0
QEC value of the superallowed β emitter 42Sc
The QEC value of the superallowed β+ emitter Sc42 has been measured with the JYFLTRAP Penning-trap mass spectrometer at the University of Jyväskylä to be 6426.350(53) keV. This result is at least a factor of four more precise than all previous measurements, which were also inconsistent with one another. As a byproduct we determine the excitation energy of the 7+ isomeric state in Sc42 to be 616.762(46) keV, which deviates by 8σ from the previous measurement. peerReviewed
Gamow-Teller Beta Decay of Neutron Rich Tc, Ru, Rh and Pd Isotopes
During recent experiments at the IGISOL-facility several new neutron rich nuclides have been discovered, including the first direct observations of the beta decays of 111Tc, 112Ru, 113Ru, 114Ru, 113Rh, 115Rh, 116Rh and 118Pd. The role of the νg7/2 → πg9/2 transformation in the beta decays of the odd-odd 110–116Rh and the even-even 114–118Pd isotopes is shown to be dominant. The experimental results are compared with shell model calculations including deformation and pairing.
New isomer and decay half-life ofRu115
Exotic, neutron-rich nuclei of mass $A=115$ produced in proton-induced fission of $^{238}\mathrm{U}$ were extracted using the IGISOL mass separator. The beam of isobars was transferred to the JYFLTRAP Penning trap system for further separation to the isotopic level. Monoisotopic samples of $^{115}\mathrm{Ru}$ nuclei were used for $\ensuremath{\gamma}$and $\ensuremath{\beta}$ coincidence spectroscopy. In $^{115}\mathrm{Ru}$ we have observed excited levels, including an isomer with a half-life of 76(6) ms and ($7/{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$) spin and parity. The first excited 61.7-keV level in $^{115}\mathrm{Ru}$ with spins and parity ($3/{2}^{+}$) may correspond to an $\mathit{oblate}$ $3/{2}^{+}$…
QEC value of the superallowed β emitter Sc42
Precise measurements of superallowed ${0}^{+}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{0}^{+}$ $\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay presently provide the most precise value for the weak mixing amplitude ${V}_{u\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}d}$. As the largest element of the CKM matrix, ${V}_{u\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}d}$ is a critical piece of the Standard Model of the electroweak interaction. The new, precise Penning-trap mass measurement of the decay energy for the superallowed transition in ${}^{42}$Sc opens the door for a much more precise $f\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}t$ value determination if its half-life can be measured more precisely as well.
Beta decay of neutron-rich 118Ag and 120Ag isotopes
b decays of on-line mass-separated neutron-rich 118Ag and 120Ag isotopes have been studied by using b-g and g-g coincidence spectroscopy. Extended decay schemes to the 118,120Cd daughter nuclei have been constructed. The three-phonon quintuplet in 118Cd is completed by including a new level at 2023.0 keV, which is tentatively assigned the spin and parity of 24 1 . The intruder band in 118Cd is proposed up to the 41 level at 2322.4 keV. The measured b-decay half-life for the high-spin isomer of 120Ag is 0.4060.03 s. Candidates for the three-phonon states, as well as the lowest members of the intruder band in 120Cd, are also presented. These data support the coexistence of quadrupole anharmon…
Total absorption spectroscopy study of the β decay of Br86 and Rb91
The beta decays of 86Br and 91Rb have been studied using the total absorption spectroscopy technique. The radioactive nuclei were produced at the IGISOL facility in Jyvaskyla and further purified using the JYFLTRAP. 86Br and 91Rb are considered high priority contributors to the decay heat in reactors. In addition 91Rb was used as a normalization point in direct measurements of mean gamma energies released in the beta decay of fission products by Rudstam et al. assuming that this decay was well known from high-resolution measurements. Our results shows that both decays were suffering from the Pandemonium effect and that the results of Rudstam et al. should be renormalized.
Quenching of the SnSbTe Cycle in therpProcess
The nuclides 104-108Sn, 106-110Sb, 108,109Te, and 111I at the expected endpoint of the astrophysical rp process have been produced in 58Ni+natNi fusion-evaporation reactions at IGISOL and their mass values were precisely measured with the JYFLTRAP Penning trap mass spectrometer. For 106Sb, 108Sb, and 110Sb these are the first direct experimental mass results obtained. The related one-proton separation energies have been derived and the value for 106Sb, Sp=424(8) keV, shows that the branching into the closed SnSbTe cycle in the astrophysical rp process is weaker than expected.
Disentangling decaying isomers and searching for signatures of collective excitations in β decay
6 pags., 3 figs., 1 tab. -- 27th International Nuclear Physics Conference (INPC2019) 29 July - 2 August 2019, Glasgow, UK
b-decay of 116Agm and the vibrational structure of 116Cd
The structure of near neutron midshell 116 Cd has been investigated via β decay of 116 Ag m by β-γ and γ-γ coincidence spectroscopy. The 116 Ag m activity was produced by symmetric fission of natural uranium induced by 25 MeV protons. The ion guide technique has been employed to produce online mass separated sources. The decay scheme of 116 Ag m has been considerably extended by adding 19 new excited states of 116 Cd . The newly identified 116 Cd state at 1869.7 keV, along with other four levels near 2 MeV, are interpreted as forming the complete three-phonon quintuplet. The vibrational structure of 116 Cd is discussed in the context of an anharmonic vibrator. peerReviewed
Production of neutron-rich isotopes in fission of uranium induced by neutrons of 20 MeV average energy
In the context of a parameter study conducted by several laboratories for future European radioactive beam facilities based on fast-neutron induced fission, in particular for the SPIRAL-II project at GANIL, we have measured the yields of neutron-rich isotopes in the mass range of 88 to 144. These nuclei were obtained as fission products of natural uranium bombarded by neutrons of 20 MeV average energy emitted by a thick carbon target irradiated by 50 MeV deuterons. Yields have been measured using on-line mass separation with the ion-guide method. Compared with proton-induced fission at 25 MeV the magnitude of cross-sections, except for the symmetric region, is similar. Z-distributions of is…